Spitz Naevus
Introduction
Spitz naevus (spits neh-vuhs) is a rare non-cancerous mole that usually appears during childhood. It is a melanocytic naevus or mole which means it is made up of melanocytes, which are pigment making cells in the skin. When looked at under a microscope, the spitz naevus has some similar features to melanoma. A spitz naevus usually grows quickly for up to two years and then stops, unlike melanoma which can continue to grow and can travel to other parts of the body. However, as spitz naevus can look similar to melanoma, it is important that it is monitored closely once diagnosed.
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Raised red mole or spitz naevus on the face of a child
Who gets it?
People of all ages can develop a spitz naevus. It usually appears in children as a single, fast growing mole. Boys and girls are equally effected, and it usually develops in children with fair/light coloured skin.
What causes it?
The exact cause of spitz naevus is unknown, but some factors may play a role, such as:
Genetics: Research has shown that in 1/4 of children, there may be a genentic cause.
Sun exposure: Exposure to UV light may increase the risk of developing spitz naevus, however studies have not demonstrated a strong link between the two.
What does it look and feel like?
Looks like…
A spitz naevus can look like a dome-shaped lump, that is round and symmetrical.
There are several types of spitz naevus, some are red in colour whereas others have a black/brown or blue coloured appearance.
Feels like…
A spitz naevus is not painful, however can sometimes be itchy or bleed if scratched.
What tests might be needed?
Your family doctor will refer you to a dermatologist for a review. They will most likely look at your child’s skin with a hand held magnifying glass called a dermatoscope. If the dermatologist is concerned about the possibility your child may have a serious skin cancer such as melanoma, they may surgically remove the mole in a procedure called a biopsy. This is sometimes performed under general anaesthetic by a paediatric plastic surgeon, depending on your child's age.
What treatments are available?
What can I do?
Monitor your child's mole every change of season. Check their skin in general for any new spots.
If you notice that the mole starts to have an irregular appearance or if you are concerned about bleeding, change in colour, size or shape of the mole, please book an appointment with your child's dermatologist for urgent review.
Medical therapies
Surveillance: your child's dermatologist may decide to monitor the mole for up to two years to make sure it does not develop into anything more serious. This can avoid unnecessary surgery and a scar.
Surgical excision: As it can be very difficult to distinguish spitz naevus from melanoma under the microscope, your child's dermatologist may surgically remove the mole.
What happens after treatment?
It is important to check in with your child's dermatologist for regular skin checks to ensure the spitz naevus does not develop further and that no other abnormal moles are present on your child’s skin.
Sometimes, spitz naevus can gradually disappear over several years without any treatment. It is unlikely that your child will develop another spitz naevus.
What support is available?
Your GP and dermatologist will work together to provide you with information on your child’s skin care. If you have any concerns, please book an appointment with your doctor.
Authors/Reviewers:
Author: Dr Thomas Guy
Paediatric Reviewer: Dr Mayuri Sivagnanam
Photographs courtesy of Dr Deshan Sebaratnam
Editor in Chief: Dr Tevi Wain
