My friend and I have similar birthmarks. Is there a chance of them turning cancerous?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have a facial birthmark. I searched it up and it seems like a nevus spilus or speckled lentiginous nevus. I read that it can turn cancerous. My parents never told me this and when I told them they told me I was just being paranoid for nothing. My friend also has a birthmark that seems like a nevus spilus. Hers is on her leg. Can you tell if they are both nevus spilus? I will put a picture of hers too.

I read that there are two types of nevus spilus. A macules and papules. Which one is mine? What about my friends? Which seems like it has a higher chance of turning cancerous. Neither of our parents believes our birthmarks are a big deal. They will not take us to a dermatologist. What do we do? Should we continue worrying? How rare is it for them to turn dangerous? Should we just move on and embrace our birthmarks?

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I appreciate you deciding to go an extra mile in gathering information about your and your friend's problem. In answer to your problem, chances of it to turn malignant (cancerous) are remote but nevertheless cannot be ruled out. As such, birthmarks tend to be deeper than acquired sunspots or other similar malignant lesions. Plus they also show signs that might suggest its change to a cancerous one. It is best if you avoid direct sun exposure on the affected side and see a doctor for a close-up examination. I would suggest a removal after a common consensus from your family's side. As for your friend again, I think from the photograph that it looks like Becker's nevus. Laser treatment followed by a minor skin surgery will cure it for life. Nothing to worry about in either of your cases.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.