Nevi of rida and nevi of spokes. Benign pigmented skin lesions (moles) Border nevus removal

A borderline nevus is a small, gray to black nodule located on the body. This is one of the few neoplasms that can be localized anywhere. It is more often single.

Border pigmented nevus consists of a large number of cells that contain large amounts of melanin. At a certain time, he did not come out, but stopped between the dermis and the epidermis.

The concept of borderline nevus

These methods allow the borderline pigmented nevus to be separated from:

  • freckles,
  • birthmarks

Treatment of borderline pigmented nevus

Those who have been diagnosed with a similar disease need to be regularly monitored by a dermatologist. As long as the tumor is safe, it is not removed.

Any trauma can lead to the fact that the doctor will offer to remove such a birthmark, since it belongs to melanoma.

Often an indication is the localization of the nevus on the palms and soles, that is, in places where the risk of disrupting the structure of the mole increases.

Unlike many other nevi, this type is rarely electrocautery and nitrogen, since such methods can cause tissue injury. And this will lead to the development of cancer.

Therefore, it is often suggested to remove using:

  • scalpel,
  • radio waves,
  • laser.

The latter method is used only if the neoplasm is guaranteed to be benign and does not require histology.

A radiosurgical knife is effective only if the formation does not exceed 0.5 cm. If signs of malignant transformation are found, the patient is immediately sent for removal using a surgical method.

In conclusion, we note: the borderline nevus often manifests itself at the age of 20 to 50 years. Due to the fact that it is considered prone to malignancy, therefore, if it is found, you should immediately seek the advice of a doctor. It will also be required if a person noticed a modification of education, its rapid growth or a violation of integrity.

After exposure, there are no traces of the procedure, but sometimes repetitions of the development of the disease are possible, which appear within a short period.

You need to know that with the appearance of porosity, pain, the release of scales, the release of lymphatic fluid, consultation and treatment are mandatory.

This video will tell about the signs of rebirth and removal of moles:

It belongs to the category of moles with a high risk of degeneration into melanoma, therefore it requires a stable examination by a dermatologist (every six months). It is asymptomatic, imperceptible. Treat with surgical excision, laser or radiotherapy. Avoiding direct exposure of ultraviolet rays to the area of ​​the junctional nevus is the main preventive action.

A borderline nevus is a neoplasm with a significant risk of degeneration into a cancerous form.

What is called a borderline nevus?

The name "borderline nevus" comes from its location. Localization between the epidermis and the dermis leads to the term "between borders". Cells with a high content of melanin pigment move to the basal layer of the epidermis to form a borderline mole. They do not have processes in their structure, therefore they do not transfer melanin to nearby cells.

Benign lesion with a high risk of developing into melanoma (every 3rd case). Moles are often dark in color, ranging from gray (light brown) to black. Diameter does not exceed 1 cm, growth at a rate of 1 mm / year is possible. On average, it is 20-50 mm, the edges are even. The shape is round or deformed. Smooth surface without hairline. The high pigment content and disposition provoke this color. A borderline pigmented nevus appears on the body in any areas, often located on the feet, palms or mucous membranes. It mainly appears in the first months of life, not dangerous, but requires increased attention and control. They grow in different quantities: from one to several. May develop into nodular lumps. In medicine, it is found under the name "junctional nevus".

Why does it arise?

Formed in connection with a violation of the occurrence of melanoblasts. The activity of the melanin pigment may be due to:

  • changes in hormonal levels;
  • exposure to ultraviolet rays;
  • the presence of infections;
  • genealogical factor;
  • oncology;
  • the action of synthetic drugs;
  • violation of the cardiovascular system.

The exact provocateurs of borderline nevus have not been studied to date.

A junctional mole often begins to develop in infancy. Changes in the mother's body during gestation, or the impact of environmental factors on her, can act as factors influencing this process.

The exact cause of this kind of stains has not been established. A more detailed clinical picture will be given by a diagnostic study. Changes in shape, color, uniformity, lines are a signal for contacting a dermatologist and establishing the good quality of a mole. The overgrowth of a border nevus into its pathological form of a cockade nevus indicates the risk of melanocytes. Reoccurrence after treatment is a high probability of oncology.

Symptoms of education

Asymptomatic and imperceptible formation, appears virtually imperceptible. The presence of itching, burning, uneven edges, redness of skin areas should alert the patient. These are not characteristic features of borderline nevus. Hair in the mole area does not grow, the surface remains smooth. The main thing is not to confuse a junctional mole with melanoma. Below is a table of differences.

As a rule, a borderline nevus, in spite of its danger, may be no different from an ordinary mole.

Symptomatically, it is impossible to determine a borderline mole, especially on your own. With age, complete disappearance is possible. The manifestation of tangible signs and changes in the form or condition of the patient is associated with an overgrowth of the mole or its pathology. An increase in body temperature indicates the presence of inflammatory processes, which may be associated with melanoma. If such nevi are located in areas with an increased risk of injury, they must be removed.

Diagnosis of a junctional spot consists of an examination by a doctor and examination for histology or ultrasound. Back to the table of contents

Diagnostics of the junctional spot

Initial examination and consultation can be carried out by a therapist with further referral to a dermatologist or surgeon. Initially, an external examination is carried out, questions are asked to the patient and the visual characteristic is determined. For a more detailed analysis, an ultrasound examination of the mole may be performed. Diagnostics will show the location of the depression between the dermis and the epidermis, the exact size and growth, the effect on the surrounding tissues. Siascopy can be prescribed as an additional diagnostic method.

To determine for malignancy, a blood test is taken for further laboratory tests. A biopsy is not recommended, since trauma to the nevus for taking material can provoke the development of a dangerous form of the disease. The conclusion is given after histology, which is carried out from the excised material during the surgical operation (if any). Only after diagnosis, the doctor can fully describe the clinical picture and decide on the method of treatment.

Treatment features

Since the education is benign, doctors do not recommend getting rid of it. An exception is the patient's personal desire or changes in the nevus. The most common form of treatment is surgical removal, which avoids recurrence. The operation takes place quickly, under general anesthesia with a minimal recovery period. In beauty salons or dermatological offices, they may offer laser therapy or radio wave destruction. After such procedures, scars and scars do not remain, and adjacent tissues are not touched either. In order not to injure the skin, cryodestruction and electrocoagulation are not used.

Traditional medicine does not work on moles, its use is ineffective and ineffectual. It is not recommended to remove the borderline mole with the help of synthetic cosmetics. The impact of such products can lead to negative changes and aggravate the situation. The treatment method should be chosen after consultation with a specialist. If the preference is given to a beauty salon, you need to make sure of the professionalism of the master and his medical education. Without preliminary diagnostics for oncogenicity of a nevus, it is not worthwhile to carry out any manipulations over the mole.

To avoid the degeneration of a borderline nevus, you should regularly visit a doctor and follow his recommendations. Back to the table of contents

Preventive measures

The main prevention is stable visits to a dermatologist with an examination of a mole and fixing indicators for its changes. The frequency of visits should be once every 6 months. It is also recommended to apply sunscreen before going outside, cover the localization of the border nevus with clothes, and avoid appearing on the street during the hours of active sun. An important factor is the maintenance of the immune system, enrichment with vitamins and essential microelements. In no case should you injure a mole.

Copying site materials is possible without prior approval in the event of an active indexed link to our site.

The information on the site is presented solely for general information. We recommend that you consult a doctor for further advice and treatment.

Border pigmented nevus

Border pigmented nevus is a congenital neoplasm. In rare cases, it appears after the birth of a person, at any age. Together with such types of nevus as blue nevus, Dubreuil's melanosis, Ota's nevus, giant pigmented nevus, the nevus undergoes malignant transformation in 1.8% to 10% of cases. Therefore, experts classify it as a melanoma-dangerous species.

Symptoms of a borderline pigmented nevus

Border pigmented nevus is a flattened black, gray, dark or light brown nodule with a diameter of several millimeters and up to 4-5 cm, but, as a rule, most often it does not exceed 1 cm.The surface of the nevus can be smooth, dry and slightly uneven. Border pigmented nevus differs from other species in that there is no hair (even vellus) on its surface.

Borderline nevus can be found on different parts of the body, as well as on the soles and palms. As a rule, a borderline nevus is a solitary formation, but foci of multiple nevi are also found.

A cockard nevus is a type of borderline nevus, a feature of which is a gradual increase in pigmentation, due to which, after a while, the nevus acquires the shape of rings and has a different degree of color.

A malignant transformation of the borderline pigmented nevus is evidenced by a change in color, a sharp increase in size, the appearance on its surface of erosion, cracks and tubercles, redness around the formation or its vague boundaries. If such changes are detected, an urgent consultation with a dermatologist is required.

Pigmented borderline nevus should also be distinguished from cavernous hemangiomas, the consistency of which is softer, and from "senile" (seborrheic) keratoma, which is characterized by a "rough" greasy and less even surface. In the differential diagnosis between early melanoma and borderline pigmented nevus, increased attention is paid to the anamnesis. Most patients who have been diagnosed with melanoma indicate that the tumor has developed for a long time at the site of an existing pigmented nevus, which did not cause any inconvenience. The nevus grows slowly according to the weight of the human body. During puberty, patients note that the nevus grows faster due to an increase in the level of metabolic and pigment processes, as well as hormonal changes in the body. Mechanical trauma is often one of the main factors that accompanies the malignancy of nevi, which previously did not bring discomfort.

Border pigmented nevus and its diagnosis

A borderline pigmented nevus in a patient is diagnosed during dermatoscopy and dermatological examination. An additional method is also used - siascopy. If there is a suspicion of malignancy, consultation with a dermato-oncologist is required.

A biopsy from a borderline pigmented nevus is usually not performed, since its injury can push it towards degeneration into a malignant tumor. Histological examinations are performed after the nevus is removed by radio waves or surgery.

Borderline pigmented nevus are distinguished from pigmented lesions such as freckles, age spots, Setton's nevi, Dubreus melanosis, and blue nevi.

Treatment of borderline pigmented nevus

Those patients who have a borderline pigmented nevus should be monitored regularly by a dermatologist. If the neoplasm is benign, then such a nevus is not removed. But it should not be forgotten that the borderline pigmented nevus is also referred to as melanoma-prone, therefore the best way to prevent melanoma is to remove the nevus. Permanent trauma to a nevus is an indication for its surgical treatment, especially if it is located on the surface of the palms or soles.

The borderline pigmented nevus is removed using a surgical scalpel, as well as a radio wave or laser device. Electrocoagulation and cryodestruction of a nevus are undesirable, since, according to experts, such methods of removal can cause severe tissue trauma, which can cause the development of melanoma.

As a rule, a cosmetic defect does not remain after the removal of moles with a laser. However, laser treatment can be used only when the removed formation does not require a histological examination. Removal of nevi with a radiosurgical knife is most often performed when the size of the formation does not exceed 5 mm. Such methods of removal for small lesions do not require suturing.

If signs of malignant transformation are detected in a nevus, it should be immediately removed surgically and a histological analysis of the removed material should be performed.

with the disease Borderline pigmented nevus

Borderline nevus: is it worth to be afraid of pathology

A nevus is a benign formation on the skin, commonly called a mole. It is an accumulation of cells of a certain type, which can be completely flat or in the form of a small growth. It can be either colorless or contain melanin pigment. Some of the types of moles can be precancerous lesions. One of these is called a borderline nevus.

What is a borderline nevus?

Melanocytes - the cells that make up moles and age spots, are formed even at the stage of fetal development in the womb. There are special processes in their structure, with the help of which they secrete the substance melanin. Cells that have processes form the color of the iris of the eye, hair, and color the mucous membranes. If these processes are absent for any reason, they accumulate in the thickness of the skin, forming various forms of nevi.

The borderline nevus has this name for the reason that the process of development and accumulation of cells stops at the border of the upper (epidermis) and middle (dermis) layers of the skin, without affecting the lowest, basal layer. This type of formation is often found on the human body from birth; in rare cases, it can develop in early childhood.

In the absence of negative factors, the nevus grows with the body. The size of a mole usually reaches 0.8-1.2 cm; cases of nevi up to several centimeters in diameter are very rare. The surface of the mole is smooth, uniform, not wet, there is never any hair on it, not even vellus hair. It contains a large amount of melanin, which at one time did not come out, but stopped between the upper and middle layers of the skin, so its color is most often dark brown, brown, purple, even almost black.

A border nevus has a variety - a coccardial mole, a characteristic feature of which is the presence of concentric rings, and the concentration of melanin will be more intense towards the center of education.

Over time, age spots of this type can transform into mixed or intra-epidermal forms. It is also one of the few types of moles that can occur on the surface of the feet and palms. Usually, the mole is not compacted; when palpated, it does not differ from the surrounding areas of the skin. However, this formation is safe only conditionally, since it belongs to the group of melanoma-dangerous ones. If a thickening of the structure is found, this may indicate the onset of malignancy - the process of transformation into a malignant form.

Melanoma development

Melanoma is a malignant skin formation resulting from the uncontrolled proliferation and proliferation of melanocytes, which replace healthy cells.

The tumor itself is not considered cancerous, but if you do not pay attention to its development in time, it can start uncontrolled growth, melanocytes can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, after which metastases may occur. This stage is fatal in 90% of cases, so it is important to pay attention to its development in time.

Among the processes that provoke the development of melanoma from a benign formation, there are:

  • excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays, tanning abuse, especially in a solarium. It is worth noting that the lighter the shade of a person's skin, hair and eyes, the more their skin is genetically susceptible to such changes. Such people should especially avoid sunburn, use sunscreen and do not overuse tanning beds.
  • mechanical or chemical injury to moles and the skin around them. This especially applies to the removal of formations, it is not for nothing that doctors do not recommend removing some types of moles at all, and even more so on their own or with the help of unqualified specialists. If you decide on removal, first of all contact your dermatologist or surgeon for a preliminary consultation. The same applies to lightening age spots with special cosmetics - you should first make sure that you have distinguished freckles from borderline nevus, which in no case should be lightened in this way
  • hormonal disorders - skin formations react especially sharply to hormone surges during puberty or pregnancy in women
  • genetic predisposition - if your close relatives had a similar problem, you need to closely monitor your health and, if you suspect the development of an ailment, urgently consult a specialist

Signs of malignancy

The main signs of the transformation of a borderline nevus into a malignant formation, which are worth paying attention to, are:

  1. Increase in size. It is precisely about the accelerated growth of education, disproportionate to the growth of the organism.
  2. Color change. Darkening of some types of moles during life is a variant of the norm, but if the color has become richer and darker in a short time, you should urgently consult a doctor.
  3. Asymmetry and uneven edges. A benign mole is quite symmetrical - if you draw a straight line through its middle, the halves will be about the same size. The contours of a healthy mole or birthmark are usually clear, not blurry. If the situation has changed, the contours have become blurred, and the mole itself began to creep and take on the appearance of a shapeless spot, this may be another reason to visit the hospital.
  4. Change in structure. Normally, the surface of the borderline nevus is smooth, without hair and roughness on the surface. If cracks, inflammation, a bulge appear on it, or it begins to bleed, it's time to sound the alarm.

Diagnostics and treatment

If you suspect the formation of melanoma, you need to consult a specialist such as a dermatologist, surgeon or oncologist. The doctor will conduct a visual examination, interview the patient and, possibly, prescribe additional diagnostic procedures - dermatoscopy or skiascopy.

Dermatoscopy is a detailed examination of a mass at high magnification. With the help of a special apparatus - a dermatoscope, the doctor will be able to determine the structure of the formation, the changes that occur to it, take pictures and observe the dynamics of the nevus. Skiascopy is a scan of the cell layer, which will also help determine the structure of the formation and the composition of its cells. Both procedures are painless and completely safe.

If the border nevus does not cause inconvenience to its owner, it is left intact. However, if it is located in an area that is easily injured, represents a significant cosmetic defect, or there is a risk of degenerating into a malignant tumor, the doctor asks about the prompt removal of the mole.

In the first two cases, laser or ultrasound removal is used. Thus, the mole is removed layer by layer using a laser or high frequency radio waves. If melanoma is suspected, radical surgical intervention is used: the mole is removed completely along with the adjacent skin area. After that, the material is sent for histological analysis to determine the type of melanoma and predict re-development, after which the patient can be prescribed treatment aimed at preventing the development of metastases.

Nevi can be found on the body from birth, or they can develop as the body grows. They often do not pose any inconvenience or danger, but there are exceptions.

Have you noticed a mistake? Select it and press Ctrl + Enter to tell us.

Attention, LAST OFFER!

Add comment Cancel reply

New articles
New articles
Recent comments
  • Alena on Inflammation of the nasopharynx: how to treat at home
  • Katya on Effective cough tea for children: the use and benefits of tea, a detailed description of folk recipes
  • Anna on How to quickly remove circles under the eyes: effective express methods
  • Nadya on An effective ointment after a burn with boiling water or other hot objects and liquids. Treatment methods
  • Katya on How to relieve nasal congestion: causes of inflammation and methods of elimination
Editorial office address

Address: Moscow, Verkhnyaya Syromyatnicheskaya street, 2, office 48

What is a borderline pigmented nevus?

A borderline pigmented nevus is a benign pigmented lesion no more than 1 cm in size, gray, brown, or black. Simply put, this is an ordinary mole. The borderline nevus does not have a clear localization and can appear on any part of the body. Pathology is most often single, multiple formations appear much less often. Borderline nevus usually has a congenital etiology, but sometimes appears in infancy, adolescence, or even later. The surface of the borderline nevus is smooth and even. A characteristic feature of a borderline nevus is the absence of hair on its surface. Its other characteristic feature is localization on the palms and soles. Other types of nevi never occur in these areas.

Causes of occurrence

Disorders in the maturation and migration of melanocytes play the leading role in the onset of this condition. The borderline nevus is composed of cells that contain large amounts of melanin. Melanocytes spread from the basal layer of the epidermis, migrate and form a border pigmented nevus. The factors that can provoke the development of a nevus include hereditary predisposition and UV radiation. Unlike normal cells, the melanocytes that form the border pigment nevus do not have processes that transmit melanin to the surrounding cells. They seem to concentrate all the pigment in themselves. For this reason, it can be said that the melanocytes that form the borderline nevus have a weak metabolic capacity.

Clinical picture

At an early stage of development, a borderline nevus appears as a light yellow spot with round, clear boundaries. It has a smooth surface that is free from hair growth. The average size of the borderline nevus is about 0.2-0.5 cm.

In the course of its development, a pigmented nevus can transform into flat nodules or complex inradermal nevi. According to statistics, 35% of all borderline nevi can transform into a malignant disease, namely melanoma. One of the varieties of border nevus is the cockade nevus. It is characterized by a gradual saturation of pigmentation along the edge, forming a peculiar pattern in the form of concentric rings on the skin. The degeneration of a nevus into melanoma or another form of malignant disease can be judged by a discoloration, rapid growth of a nevus, the appearance of ulceration, uneven edges, cracks and tubercles.

Diagnostics

A dermatologist diagnoses the disease when examined by clinical symptoms. In order not to be mistaken when making a diagnosis, dermatoscopy is used. The essence of the method is to use a special fluorescent microscope, which magnifies the image several times. Another diagnostic method is siascopy. Siascop helps to establish the true picture of the formation (structure of the nevus, color, tendency to malignancy). Histological studies with a borderline nevus are not carried out, since its damage can provoke the development of a malignant disease. A biopsy is performed after the nevus is removed.

However, there are cases of nevus degeneration into a malignant formation after its surgical removal.

It is necessary to differentiate this pathology with the following pigmentary diseases:

  • age spots;
  • freckles;
  • blue nevi;
  • seborrheic keratoma;
  • Dubreus melanosis;
  • Setton's nevi;
  • cavernous hemangioma.

It is necessary to make a differential diagnosis between the borderline nevus and early melanoma. When melanoma is detected, attention is paid to the fact that a cancerous tumor developed for a long time at the site of a pigmented nevus, which did not cause any subjective sensations. Usually, nevi develop slowly from birth in accordance with the person's weight. However, mechanical damage to the nevus is one of the main factors in the malignancy of the mole.

Treatment of the disease

Holders of borderline pigmented nevus should undergo regular medical examinations. Like any other benign skin disease, it does not need urgent excision. But you should know that this pathology belongs to the melanoma-dangerous group of nevi. Many experts are inclined to believe that the best prevention of melanoma is to remove it surgically, especially when the nevus is localized in places of increased trauma. At the same time, the removal of a nevus, even by surgery, can cause its malignancy. In this case, you need to conduct a detailed study of the nevus and consult a dermato-oncologist.

Among the methods of removing border pigmented nevus, the following predominate:

Other methods such as electrocautery and cryodestruction of the nevus are not advisable. Many experts are inclined to believe that the above methods cause severe tissue damage, which can provoke the development of melanoma at the site of the removed nevus.

Removal of a nevus using a carbon dioxide laser does not leave behind skin scarring. But this method is used only when the doctor is completely sure of the benign etiology of the nevus.

If the size of the nevus does not exceed 5 mm, then the radio wave method is used. It is removed with a radiosurgical knife. This method, like laser, does not require stitches.

If a malignant nevus is suspected, it is urgently removed. The removed material is given for histological analysis.

Prophylaxis

Prevention of the disease consists in systematic preventive examinations, since the owners of borderline pigmented nevus are at risk due to its malignancy. For this reason, a dermatoscopy of nevi is performed every six months. People at risk are prohibited from being exposed to UV radiation for a long time and the permanent use of sunscreens with a high protection factor is recommended.

A borderline nevus is a flat birthmark made up of melanocytes - cells containing the pigment melanin, which does not come out, but remains between the epidermis and the dermis. Birthmarks of this type are primary and acquired. Over time, they can develop into mixed or dermal moles. The most dangerous is the proliferating nevus, against the background of which melanoma often develops. Both the appearance of new moles and the disappearance of old ones should not go unnoticed. For any changes in the condition of the spots, you must contact the oncologist. Despite the fact that the borderline pigmented nevus belongs to benign neoplasms, it is included in the melanoma-dangerous group, that is, there is a risk of its degeneration into a malignant tumor.

Melanocytes - the cells from which the borderline nevus is formed - begin to mature even during the period of intrauterine development. A mole is formed from a nerve fiber and travels to the skin. Each cell has a channel through which the pigment is removed to the outside. Some melanocytes are located in the mucous membranes, responsible for the color of the eyes, others - in the layers of the skin, giving it a particular shade. There are pigment cells that do not have channels for excreting substances to the outside. Melanin does not enter the epidermis, but begins to accumulate in a limited area, forming dark spots.

Depending on which layer of the skin the altered melanocytes are in, all moles are divided into 3 types: borderline nevus - the division of pigment cells occurs at the border of the middle and upper layers of the skin, the basal layer does not affect the neoplasm. Mixed moles penetrate into the deep layers of the epidermis. Intradermal spots form deep in the dermis. The deeper the melanocytes are located, the stronger the mole will protrude above the surface.

The main features of border formations

Since the borderline pigmented nevus is located shallowly under the skin, it does not protrude above the surface. It looks like a dark spot or papule of an oval or round shape. Such neoplasms do not have characteristic locations; they can appear on the face, limbs, genitals, soles and palms. Moles located on the torso can become intradermal. The borderline pigmented nevus, located on areas of the skin devoid of sebaceous glands, remains unchanged throughout a person's life. Experts believe that birthmarks on the palms and soles can only be borderline.

Often, several moles form on the skin, which change their appearance over time. This is facilitated by puberty, pregnancy, entering the period of menopause. The neoplasms have a flat, smooth surface. The size varies from a few mm to 1 cm. If the spot has a diameter of more than 5 cm, we are talking about such a phenomenon as dysplastic syndrome.
Borderline nevi have such a characteristic feature as the absence of hair on the surface. These moles do not even have vellus hair. The color varies from flesh to dark brown. The hue is determined by the amount of melanin in the pigment cells. Since this substance is produced in cells that do not have a special process, little is produced, most often moles are light in color. Cockade spots are a kind of border spots; they differ from the usual ones by the presence of a dark rim along the contour. Because of this, outwardly, such moles resemble a ring.
Changes in the color and size of the neoplasm, the appearance of erosions and weeping ulcers, redness of the surrounding tissues or blurred outlines may indicate a malignant degeneration. In this case, an urgent need to consult a doctor. It is necessary to be able to distinguish borderline pigmented nevus from other forms of hyperpigmentation, especially chloasma, which outwardly resembles a large mole. This neoplasm is often confused with a hemangioma, which has a less dense structure. Senile keratoma is characterized by a rough surface covered with a thick layer of sebum.

However, it is most important to notice the transformation of the borderline mole into melanoma in time. This tumor develops at the site of a flat spot without any characteristic signs. A weakly expressed dysplastic syndrome is observed - the expansion of the boundaries of the spot, the appearance of growths on its surface, redness of the surrounding skin. Mechanical damage to the mole is considered a provoking factor of malignant transformation. You should be especially careful about neoplasms located on the palms, soles, near the nails. They are almost always borderline in nature and easily injured. Pigmented flat nevus of this localization must be removed as soon as possible.

Identification and treatment of dangerous moles

Diagnostics begins with an external examination and dermatoscopy. Histology is not performed before the removal of the stain, since a biopsy can lead to damage and further malignant transformation. Microscopic examination reveals that the melanocytes that make up the neoplasm have a reniform nucleus and an atypical shape. Less commonly, a dangerous nevus consists of cells randomly scattered within the epidermis. People with dangerous moles need to see a dermatologist regularly. Since the growths are benign neoplasms, emergency surgery is not required in all cases.

It should be remembered that borderline moles are the background for the development of melanoma, so the best way to prevent skin cancer is to remove them in time. The indication for the operation is a constant mechanical effect on the nevus, especially if it is located in the armpits, groin, neck or palms. Removal can be carried out by the classical surgical method, laser or radio wave exposure. Cryodestruction and electrocoagulation of the borderline nevus is not recommended; this contributes to injury to the surrounding tissues. There were cases of melanoma development at the site of a remote benign neoplasm.

After laser destruction, no trace remains on the skin. There is practically no recovery period. However, this method can be used only if histological analysis is not required. Excision of age spots with a radiosurgical knife is prescribed when their size is small. Postoperative trauma heals without suturing. When signs of malignant transformation appear, removal is performed using the classical surgical method. The tissues are sent for histological examination.
Borderline neoplasms are dangerous due to the ability to degenerate into skin cancer, so the person who has them should carefully monitor their health. If the slightest changes appear, it is necessary to urgently contact an oncologist. Particular attention should be paid to protecting the skin from ultraviolet rays.

In this article:

The borderline (intraepidermal) nevus is a flat birthmark of epidermal melanocytic origin. Simply put, it consists of cells containing the pigment melanin, which at one time did not come out, but stopped between the epidermis and the dermis. Birthmarks of this type can be congenital and acquired. With age, they can transform into mixed or intradermal forms.

Both the appearance of new pigmentary neoplasms on the skin and the disappearance of a nevus should not be ignored. Any changes should be reported to your doctor. Despite the fact that this mole is classified as benign formations on the skin, it belongs to the group of melanoma-dangerous ones - that is, the risk of its transformation into a cancer of the skin is not excluded.

How do borderline birthmarks appear?

Melanocytes - the cells that make up birthmarks, are laid even in the intrauterine development of the fetus. Future cells of the mole are formed from the neural fold and migrate into the skin. Each such cell has a process through which the pigment exits. Some melanocytic cells are located in the mucous membranes, determining the color of the eyes, while others stop in the layers of the skin, giving it a certain color. But there are melanocyte cells that do not have processes through which the pigment should leave. They do not transfer melanin to the skin, but begin to accumulate in certain areas, forming birthmarks.

Depending on which layer of the skin the melanocytes without processes have stopped on, and how they are located, all birthmarks are divided into 3 groups:

  • Borderline - proliferation (the process of cell division and multiplication) stopped at the border of the epidermis and dermis, without affecting the basal layer, therefore the name is borderline;
  • Mixed-type birthmarks - cell nests descended into the deeper basal layer of the epidermis and dermis;
  • Intradermal moles - melanocytes have penetrated into the deeper layer of the skin - the dermis.

An interesting observation: the deeper the melanocytic cells are located, the greater the bulge of the nevus.

Characteristic signs of a borderline nevus

  • After examining the photo of a nevus, you can understand that this type of birthmark consists of cells that are located in the epidermis - not deep under the skin. These moles are flat, in fact, they do not protrude above the skin. They appear on the body in the form of specks, less often - papules of an oval or round shape;
  • The favorite places of localization of the nevus are not observed - the borderline nevus can be randomly located on the face, trunk, legs and arms, genitals, as well as on the palms and soles. Moreover, if on the trunk and limbs it can develop into a birthmark of a mixed or intradermal type, then on the soles, palms and genitals of such a transformation is not observed. There is an interesting hypothesis that moles, which are located on the soles and palms, can only be borderline;
  • It is not uncommon to find several birthmarks of this type on the body, which over time can change their appearance (most often during puberty), become more convex;
  • The surface of the nevus, as seen in the photo, is smooth and uniform, dry to the touch;
  • The size of pigmented formations of this form ranges from several millimeters to 1 cm. Rare cases have been recorded when neoplasms of this type reached 5 cm. If the spot size is above 1 cm, then we are talking about a dysplastic mole;
  • An important differential feature of a nevus is its shape, which helps to distinguish it from many other moles of melanocytic origin - the absence of any, even vellus hair on the surface;
  • In the photo, you can see that moles of this species can be either light yellow or brown. The shade depends on the amount of melanin contained in the melanocytes from which the mole is formed. Since there is a small amount of melanin in these cells, most often moles of this type are light;
  • Cocardiac nevus is a type of borderline. It differs from him in the presence of a darker pigment outline along the contour of the mole. Due to this, the cockade nevus, if you look at the photo, resembles a ring.

The difference between a borderline nevus and similar neoplasms on the skin

A mole of this type should be distinguished from non-neoplastic pigmented lesions on the skin:

  • First of all, from freckles, which can merge into foci and resemble a borderline nevus in appearance;
  • Also, the appearance of this neoplasm on the skin can be confused with cavernous hemangioma, which is softer to the touch;
  • Senile (seborrheic) keratoma differs from this nevus in a less even, rough sebaceous surface.

However, it is most important to make a timely differentiation between the borderline mole and early melanoma. As practice shows, patients indicate that melanoma develops in their place of a flat nevus without any visible signs, or slightly noticeable symptoms were observed, such as changes in the color of the birthmark, the appearance of roughness on the surface, redness and blurred contours.

Also, mechanical trauma may become a predisposing factor for the transformation of a flat birthmark into melanoma. You should especially take care of moles on the palms, feet, nail bed, which are almost always borderline and are susceptible to frequent mechanical stress. It is better to remove such flat birthmarks for the purpose of prevention.

Diagnostics and treatment

Diagnosis of a nevus includes a visual dermatological examination, dermatoscopy, and siascopy. A biopsy is not performed, since a violation of the integrity can give an impetus to the formation of aggressive cells.

On microscopic examination, it can be seen that the cells that make up a nevus of this shape are oval in shape with a kidney-shaped nucleus. Less commonly, moles of this species consist of cells that are scattered throughout the epidermis.

For the prevention of a nevus of this form, it is removed by all known techniques. Laser and radio wave surgery is especially in high demand, less often, if melanoma is suspected, surgical excision is performed to send the material for histology. It is not recommended to get rid of borderline moles with liquid nitrogen, since the nevus cells that make up this mole are not located deep under the skin, and liquid nitrogen on healthy skin can cause burns and trauma.

Having found a borderline nevus on your body, you should pay attention to all the changes that occur to it. At the slightest suspicion of the transformation of a borderline mole into melanoma, you should immediately see a specialist.

A borderline nevus occurs due to the activity of melanin. How this is provided is unknown. A benign formation located between the epidermis and the dermis, which explains its name. It belongs to the category of moles with a high risk of degeneration into melanoma, therefore it requires a stable examination by a dermatologist (every six months). It is asymptomatic, imperceptible. Treat with surgical excision, laser or radiotherapy. Avoiding direct exposure of ultraviolet rays to the area of ​​the junctional nevus is the main preventive action.

A borderline nevus is a neoplasm with a significant risk of degeneration into a cancerous form.

What is called a borderline nevus?

The name "borderline nevus" comes from its location. Localization between the epidermis and the dermis leads to the term "between borders". Cells with a high content of melanin pigment move to the basal layer of the epidermis to form a borderline mole. They do not have processes in their structure, therefore they do not transfer melanin to nearby cells.

Benign lesion with a high risk of developing into melanoma (every 3rd case). Moles are often dark in color, ranging from gray (light brown) to black. Diameter does not exceed 1 cm, growth at a rate of 1 mm / year is possible. On average, it is 20-50 mm, the edges are even. The shape is round or deformed. Smooth surface without hairline. The high pigment content and disposition provoke this color. A borderline pigmented nevus appears on the body in any areas, often located on the feet, palms or mucous membranes. It mainly appears in the first months of life, not dangerous, but requires increased attention and control. They grow in different quantities: from one to several. May develop into nodular lumps. In medicine, it is found under the name "junctional nevus".

Why does it arise?

Formed in connection with a violation of the occurrence of melanoblasts. The activity of the melanin pigment may be due to:

  • changes in hormonal levels;
  • exposure to ultraviolet rays;
  • the presence of infections;
  • genealogical factor;
  • oncology;
  • the action of synthetic drugs;
  • violation of the cardiovascular system.

The exact provocateurs of borderline nevus have not been studied to date.

A junctional mole often begins to develop in infancy. Changes in the mother's body during gestation, or the impact of environmental factors on her, can act as factors influencing this process.

The exact cause of this kind of stains has not been established. A more detailed clinical picture will be given by a diagnostic study. Changes in shape, color, uniformity, lines are a signal for contacting a dermatologist and establishing the good quality of a mole. The overgrowth of a border nevus into its pathological form of a cockade nevus indicates the risk of melanocytes. Reoccurrence after treatment is a high probability of oncology.

Symptoms of education

Asymptomatic and imperceptible formation, appears virtually imperceptible. The presence of itching, burning, uneven edges, redness of skin areas should alert the patient. These are not characteristic features of borderline nevus. Hair in the mole area does not grow, the surface remains smooth. The main thing is not to confuse a junctional mole with melanoma. Below is a table of differences.

As a rule, a borderline nevus, in spite of its danger, may be no different from an ordinary mole.

CharacteristicJunctional nevusMelanoma
SymmetryThe edges are symmetrical.Asymmetry of the form.
The sizeRemains in the same diameter, growth is very slow.Fast growth.
The edgesUneven, blurry.Uneven, blurry, indistinct, rapidly changing.
ColourUniform (an exception is given only to the cockade type) from light brown or gray to dark.Changes dramatically. There are areas that are darker or lighter. Inhomogeneity.
AppearanceRemains the same over time.A drastic change in appearance.

Symptomatically, it is impossible to determine a borderline mole, especially on your own. With age, complete disappearance is possible. The manifestation of tangible signs and changes in the form or condition of the patient is associated with an overgrowth of the mole or its pathology. An increase in body temperature indicates the presence of inflammatory processes, which may be associated with melanoma. If such nevi are located in areas with an increased risk of injury, they must be removed.


Diagnosis of a junctional spot consists of an examination by a doctor and examination for histology or ultrasound.

Initial examination and consultation can be carried out by a therapist with further referral to a dermatologist or surgeon. Initially, an external examination is carried out, questions are asked to the patient and the visual characteristic is determined. For a more detailed analysis, an ultrasound examination of the mole may be performed. Diagnostics will show the location of the depression between the dermis and the epidermis, the exact size and growth, the effect on the surrounding tissues. Siascopy can be prescribed as an additional diagnostic method.

To determine for malignancy, a blood test is taken for further laboratory tests. A biopsy is not recommended, since trauma to the nevus for taking material can provoke the development of a dangerous form of the disease. The conclusion is given after histology, which is carried out from the excised material during the surgical operation (if any). Only after diagnosis, the doctor can fully describe the clinical picture and decide on the method of treatment.