HYPERPIGMENTATION

 

A nevus, or mole, is a non-cancerous (benign) skin lesion that is made up of the pigment-producing cells of the skin (melanocytes). A mole that is present at birth is called a congenital nevus. A congenital nevus usually continues to grow with the child. A giant pigmented nevus is typically larger than 8 inches once it stops growing. A dysplastic nevus is a mole in which unusual growth is indicated. A halo nevus is a mole that is pink or brown in color, and surrounded by an area of light skin. This mole tends to flatten out and may disappear completely over time. The white area may remain if the mole disappears, or the normal skin color may return. Halo nevi are not dangerous or contagious, but they are sometimes a sign of problem with the skin.
Nevi slowly enlarge evenly in all directions over time. After moles stop growing, they may remain on the skin or they may decrease in size later in life. Sun exposure and family heredity play roles in the development of moles.
A nevus will appear as dark-colored patch with any of the following characteristics:

• Brown to blue-black color
• Contain hair
• Skin surface may be smooth to irregular or wart-like
• Borders of these lesions are regular or uneven

 

 

They are commonly found on the upper or lower parts of the back or the abdomen. They may also be found on the arms, legs and elsewhere on the body, including the palms, soles, and even the mucous membranes and the mouth.
Treatment consists of frequent examination to check for skin cancers and even surgery to remove the nevus if becomes a health hazard. Dr. Umar uses the Lutronic VRM III Spectra laser to remove the nevus from the skin.