What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)
- Deep Penetrating Naevus
- DPN (Deep Penetrating Nevus)
- Plexiform Spindle Cell Nevus
What is Deep Penetrating Nevus? (Definition/Background Information)
- A nevus (plural nevi) is a mole on the skin that can occur on any part of the body
- A Deep Penetrating Nevus (DPN) is an uncommon, benign mole that occurs as a deeply-pigmented skin lesion. When the mole is examined under a microscope by a pathologist, it presents similar features of two other nevi - Spitz nevus and blue nevus
- The lesion is usually a well-defined papule or nodule, less than 1 cm in size. It can be present anywhere on the body, but frequent sites include the face, arms, and legs. A majority of the Deep Penetrating Nevi are seen in children and young adults
- Deep Penetrating Nevus is observed to occur spontaneously and the cause is largely unknown. There are also no identified risk factors for the development of this lesion
- Treatment is generally not required for a Deep Penetrating Nevus unless it presents cosmetic issues. The prognosis is generally excellent, since these skin lesions are benign
Who gets Deep Penetrating Nevus? (Age and Sex Distribution)
- Deep Penetrating Nevus is a benign skin tumor that can occur at any age, but is generally noticed between the period of 10-30 years
- Both males and females are affected and there is no gender bias observed
- All racial and ethnic groups are at risk
What are the Risk Factors for Deep Penetrating Nevus? (Predisposing Factors)
- Currently, there are no identified risk factors for Deep Penetrating Nevus formation
It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s 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 Deep Penetrating Nevus? (Etiology)
- The cause of Deep Penetrating Nevus formation is unknown
- Genetic mutations have been suspected by researchers in some cases, but these have not been well-characterized
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Deep Penetrating Nevus?
The signs and symptoms of Deep Penetrating Nevus (DPN) may include the following:
- It is a benign tumor that occurs as a heavily pigmented skin nodule or papule
- These moles are usually solitary and the pigmented area is well-circumscribed
- The color of these moles may range from black to brown to blue
- The nodule is typically less than 1 cm in size; a slight bump may be noticed on the skin
- DPN can occur anywhere on the body; the most common site is the face and arms and legs (especially towards the shoulder or hip)
How is Deep Penetrating Nevus Diagnosed?
A Deep Penetrating Nevus 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
Note: In a majority of cases, no skin biopsy is typically necessary. It may be performed if the tumor resembles a melanoma, which is a malignant skin tumor.
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 Deep Penetrating Nevus?
There are frequently no complications that arise from a Deep Penetrating Nevus.
- Nevertheless, in some individuals, it may give rise to cosmetic concerns
- Intense scratching or itching of the lesion may lead to bleeding and ulceration. This can cause secondary bacterial or fungal infections to develop
- Recurrence of the tumor can occur on its incomplete excision and removal
How is Deep Penetrating Nevus Treated?
The treatment measures for Deep Penetrating Nevus include:
- The healthcare provider may choose to regularly observe the benign tumor; a “wait and watch” approach may be followed. In such cases, no treatment is generally required
- If required, a surgical excision and complete removal of the nodule, to address cosmetic issues may be undertaken
- Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are advised
How can Deep Penetrating Nevus be Prevented?
Current medical research has not established a method of preventing Deep Penetrating Nevus.
What is the Prognosis of Deep Penetrating Nevus? (Outcomes/Resolutions)
- The prognosis of Deep Penetrating Nevus is excellent on its complete excision and removal
- Since, it is a benign condition, the prognosis is generally excellent even if only periodic observation is maintained
Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Deep Penetrating Nevus:
- 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
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