Common Types of Nevi

Congenital Melanocytic Nevus

A mole present at birth. It may be small, medium, or large and can vary in color and texture.

Acquired Melanocytic Nevus

The most common type of mole, usually developing during childhood or early adulthood. It is typically round, evenly colored, and well-defined.

Junctional Nevus

A flat, brown or dark-colored mole with pigment cells located at the junction of the epidermis and dermis.

Compound Nevus

A slightly raised mole with pigment cells in both the epidermis and dermis. It is usually brown and may have hair growing from it.

Intradermal Nevus

A flesh-colored or light brown raised mole with pigment cells located within the dermis. It is common in adults.

Dysplastic (Atypical) Nevus

A larger mole with irregular borders or uneven color. Although usually benign, it may resemble melanoma and should be evaluated by a dermatologist.

Blue Nevus

A blue, blue-black, or gray mole caused by pigment located deep within the skin.

Spitz Nevus

A pink, red, or brown dome-shaped mole that commonly appears in children and young adults.

Halo Nevus

A mole surrounded by a ring of lighter or white skin caused by loss of pigment around the lesion.

Becker Nevus

A large, irregular brown patch that often becomes hairy after puberty, usually appearing on the shoulder, chest, or upper back.

Nevus Sebaceous

A congenital yellow-orange, hairless plaque that most commonly occurs on the scalp or face.

Epidermal Nevus

A congenital overgrowth of the epidermis appearing as linear or warty, skin-colored to brown plaques.

Common Symptoms

* Flat or raised skin lesions
* Brown, black, blue, pink, or skin-colored spots
* Smooth or rough surface
* Round or irregular shape
* Hair growth from some moles
* Usually painless

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on:

* Medical history
* Physical examination
* Dermoscopic examination
* Skin biopsy when indicated

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

Consult a dermatologist if a mole:

* Changes in size, shape, or color
* Has irregular or uneven borders
* Develops multiple colors
* Becomes itchy, painful, or starts bleeding
* Grows rapidly
* Looks different from your other moles

Important Facts

* Most nevi are benign (non-cancerous).
* Some are present at birth, while others develop later in life.
* Regular skin examinations help detect suspicious changes early.
* Any new or changing mole should be assessed by a dermatologist to rule out skin cancer.