Dermatology Nevi & Skin Tumors Quiz

Study Notes

Nevi Overview

Nevi, commonly known as moles, can be classified into three types: junctional, compound, and intradermal.
The development and maturation of nevi can change throughout a person's life.

Fitzpatrick Skin Type

Junctional Nevi:
- Youngest type, characterized by hyperpigmentation, flatness (macules), and a fried-egg appearance (darker center).
Compound Nevi:
- Developed from junctional nevi, these are elevated (papules) that form as individuals age.
Intradermal Nevi:
- Formed in middle age (40s to 50s), presented as dome-shaped papules, with or without hair.

Incidence & Prevalence

Nevi are subject to change throughout life, maturing and potentially disappearing.
Maximum number of nevi occurs between ages 20-25, averaging around 40.
Nevi begin as small, flat pigmented macules, progressing from junctional to compound to intradermal forms.
Many nevi flatten and fade, disappearing completely by age 90.

Histologic Differences of Nevi

Junctional Nevi:
- Nests of melanocytes are located purely in the epidermis.
Compound Nevi:
- Nevus cells migrate to the upper dermis while remaining in the epidermis, showing mixed dermal and epidermal cells.
Intradermal Nevi:
- Melanocytes are entirely within the dermis.

Cellular Nevi Characteristics

Cellular nevi typically appear early in life and increase in number over 2-3 decades, followed by a steady decline.
Females are more likely to have more nevi than males; Caucasians tend to have more than African Americans.
Sun exposure correlates with an increased number of moles, primarily on exposed skin areas.

Junctional Nevus Specifics

Characteristics include:
- Smooth, hairless, light to dark brown macules.
- May exhibit a target or fried-egg appearance.
Locations commonly include palms, soles, and scrotum.
May be present at birth or appear between ages 3-18.

Description

Test your knowledge on nevi, premalignant conditions, and both nonmelanoma and melanoma skin tumors. This quiz is based on the lecture notes provided by Dr. Del Rio and includes key concepts from dermatology. Dive into the specifics of skin types and their implications in skin pathology.