Skin moles are common growths that can appear on any part of the body. While new or changing skin lesions can cause concern, most moles are benign, meaning non-cancerous. This article focuses on the intradermal melanocytic nevus and its characteristics.
What is an Intradermal Melanocytic Nevus?
An intradermal melanocytic nevus is a common type of benign skin growth originating from melanocytes, which produce skin pigment. These moles are characterized by their cells being primarily within the dermis, the deeper layer of the skin. Because the melanocytes are situated deeper, these moles often appear flesh-colored or light brown, though some can be pigmented.
Intradermal nevi present as elevated, dome-shaped bumps. They are usually small, ranging from 5 millimeters to 1 centimeter in diameter. These moles can be soft and rubbery to the touch and may have hair growing from them, particularly in older individuals. While they can appear anywhere, they are frequently found on the face, neck, and torso.
Is This Type of Nevus Cancerous?
Intradermal melanocytic nevi are benign skin lesions. These moles represent a stable proliferation of melanocytes confined to the dermis, and they rarely, if ever, transform into melanoma, a serious type of skin cancer. Their benign nature is supported by their stable cellular structure, which lacks the atypical features seen in cancerous growths.
The cells within an intradermal nevus mature as they descend deeper into the dermis, exhibiting a bland cytology without significant nuclear enlargement or destructive growth patterns. Unlike melanoma, which often shows irregular borders, uneven color, and rapid changes, intradermal nevi maintain a consistent appearance over time.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While intradermal nevi are generally harmless, it is important to monitor all moles for any changes that could signal a concern. The “ABCDE” rule provides a helpful guide for identifying potentially suspicious moles:
Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
Border irregularity: Ragged, notched, or blurred edges.
Color variation: Uneven coloration, including different shades of brown, black, or patches of red, white, or blue.
Diameter: Greater than 6 millimeters, roughly the size of a pencil eraser, warrants attention.
Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, elevation, or new symptoms like itching, tenderness, or bleeding.
Any mole exhibiting these signs should be evaluated by a medical professional. Regular self-skin examinations can help individuals become familiar with their moles and detect concerning changes early.
Diagnosis and Management
Dermatologists diagnose an intradermal melanocytic nevus through a visual clinical examination. They may use a dermatoscope to examine the mole’s features more closely. If there is any uncertainty about the mole’s characteristics or if it exhibits concerning changes, a biopsy may be performed.
A biopsy involves removing a tissue sample from the mole, which is then sent to a pathologist for microscopic examination. For confirmed intradermal nevi, treatment is usually not medically necessary. Removal is generally considered only for cosmetic reasons or if the mole is frequently irritated by clothing or shaving. Surgical methods like shave excision are common for removal, but management remains primarily observation.