Are We Overtreating Severely Dysplastic Nevi?

Dysplastic nevi seem to represent a marker for melanoma risk, rather than precursors to the disease. Lack of clarity in describing the histology of dysplastic nevi, shown here, has resulted in overtreatment.

Is severe dysplastic nevus cancer?

Is it cancer? No. A dysplastic nevus is more likely than a common mole to become cancer, but most do not become cancer.

Is a severely dysplastic nevus melanoma?

Moderately-to-severely and severely dysplastic nevi are more often associated with melanoma, and excision may be beneficial for melanoma detection or prevention.