Is there any chance of developing a cancerous growth after shaving macular congenital nevus spilus?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have congenital macular nevus spilus. Should I be concerned about it? Which one has a higher risk, macular congenital nevus spilus or a papular congenital nevus spilus? Is it dangerous to shave macular congenital nevus spilus? I read it can become cancerous by shaving it. I shaved it once. Should I be concerned? Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern. Congenital nevus spilus is also called speckled lentigines nevus (SLN). Regular monitoring of nevus spilus is essential, and the risk depends on the family history of melanoma. To estimate your condition's risk, you must consult a specialist doctor and undergo a local examination. It involves an examination of asymmetry, border irregularities, bleeding, color changes, and diameter changes. These are the signs of atypia, meaning it is growing toward melanoma. Keep taking pictures every month for comparison. An annual check-up by a dermatologist is also recommended. It is always better to have your nevus checked with a dermoscopy examination; if there are any atypical features, your dermatologist would suggest you undergo a biopsy to rule out possible melanoma, and the lesion can be removed by excision. I hope I was helpful to you. Thank you.