What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• AMNGT (Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type)
• Atypical Melanocytic Naevus of the Genital Type

What is Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type? (Definition/Background Information)

• A nevus (plural nevi) is a mole on the skin that can occur on any part of the body. A melanocytic nevus is benign tumor of melanocytic (pigment-based) cells that occur on the skin
• Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type (AMNGT) is a histological subtype (or subgroup) of genital nevus. It is characterized by atypical or unusual features that is observed on examination of a skin biopsy, under the microscope by a pathologist
• Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type is observed to occur spontaneously and the cause is largely unknown. There are also no identified risk factors for the development of the tumor presently
• A majority of them are observed in adult women (before menopause). They do not present any significant complications, but may rarely raise a suspicion for a melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer
• A surgical removal of the nevus is generally recommended, even though it is benign. The prognosis of Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type is generally excellent with adequate treatment

Who gets Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type can occur at any age, but is generally noticed in young adults (in the 3^rd decade)
• AMNGT is virtually only present in premenopausal status women. Even though men may be seen with this skin lesion type, it is very infrequent
• All racial and ethnic groups are at risk
• A small subset of genital nevus are Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type

What are the Risk Factors for Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type? (Predisposing Factors)

Currently, there are no clearly-established risk factors for Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type formation.

However, the following may be possible risk factors for genital nevus:

• Some studies indicate repeated injury to the region involving superficial skin
• Hormonal influence (sex hormones)
• One’s genetic make-up
• The type of tissue stroma in the region of the nevus

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type? (Etiology)

The cause of Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type formation is currently unknown. However, some research scientists believe that the following factors may contribute towards the formation of genital nevi:

• Chronic trauma to the skin of the genital region
• Imbalance of sex hormones
• Genetic factors

It is important to note that AMNGT is not a sexually-transmitted infection, and it does not spread from one individual to another through contact.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type?

The signs and symptoms of Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type may include the following:

• The presence of a benign, pigmented skin lesion that is ‘mushroom-shaped’; the color of the lesion is usually deep tan or dark brown
• The lesions may be regular in shape with defined borders
• The skin lesions appear as bumps (dome-shaped) and are less than 10 mm in size; the size may range from 2 mm to about 2.5 cm
• Some AMNGTs are shaped like polyps; some are flat like papules
• The lesion occurs mostly around the vaginal opening (in women); on the clitoris and labia minora. However, they may be present anywhere on the genitals, in men

Note: Nevi presenting histological characteristics as AMNGT are known to be present along the ‘milk-lines’ of the body (imaginary lines on the body from the armpits to the groin region).

How is Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type Diagnosed?

Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type is diagnosed through the following tools:

• Complete physical examination with evaluation of medical history
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type?

There are frequently no complications that arise from Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type.

• Nevertheless, in some individuals, it may give rise to cosmetic concerns
• Due to similar histological features, AMNGT may resemble and raise suspicion of a melanoma (a type of skin cancer)

How is Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type Treated?

The treatment measures for Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type include:

• Even though it is a benign skin lesion, a surgical excision and complete removal of the lesion is almost always recommended
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are encouraged

How can Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type be Prevented?

Current medical research has not established a method of preventing the occurrence of Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type.

What is the Prognosis of Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type is excellent on its complete excision and removal
• Studies indicate that over a few decades, AMNGT is not known to recur or malignantly spread to other regions; however, healthcare providers recommend their removal in almost all cases

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Atypical Melanocytic Nevus of the Genital Type:

• There is no evidence to prove that the tumor formation is influenced by one’s dietary choices
• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition
• The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for the condition. However, it helps to be clean and hygienic, which may help the condition from getting worse