HomeAnswersDermatologycompound nevusCan nevus recur?

Why does nevus recur?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Sneha Kannan

Published At February 16, 2016
Reviewed AtJune 28, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

About a year ago, I had nevus excision. Neither shaving nor laser, it was total excision. But two days ago I realized that the nevus has come back there along the edges of the scar, the same shape of the scar. The biopsy report of the first one is compound nevus and there is nothing abnormal. There is no note as dysplastic or something like that. I visited my dermatologist today and he said we will follow it for the next 3 months. I have been becoming paranoid. I need some advice. Please see the pictures of the old and new ones. Thanks in advance.

Answered by Dr. Shaunak Patel

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your complaint and gone through the photos (attachment removed to protect patient identity). Any nevus is a collection of melanocytes that are able to multiply violently. Hence, even if a small section is left it can potentially regrow. You can go for elliptical excision with at least 5 mm margin and then laser sessions to blow out the reminder.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thanks for your reply.

Could you say something about its appearance for now from the picture?

Answered by Dr. Shaunak Patel

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Looks like it has come back, whether just like before or maybe less than that. As for now we have to wait and see. Once it has reached full size, we can think about elliptical incision and all that.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

Is the new one a compound nevus or something like melanoma? Do I have to panic? If it seems like bad thing, I do not want to be late. I do not want to cut again if it is unnecessary. I did not get the operation because of esthetic issues. It is about 3-4 mm for now. Thanks in advance for your reply.

Answered by Dr. Shaunak Patel

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Only a biopsy can establish the degree of dysplasia, but it is always better to be safe than take chances. Hence, excision is my choice of treatment for any patient. Your case was of compound nevus where the cells are both in dermis and epidermis. Hence, if some deeper tissue is left in dermis, then chances are there for recurrence. Safe and best alternative is elliptical excision or a punch biopsy up to the subcutaneous fat including 2-3 mm of normal tissue. I always get good results with it.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Shaunak Patel
Dr. Shaunak Patel

Dermatology

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