Risk of Melanoma Development from Giant Congenital Melanocytic Nevi (GCMN) and Psychological Adjustment and Quality of Life in Children and Adolescents with GCMN - An Analysis of Self- and Parent Reports

Giant congenital melanocytic nevi (GCMN) are one of the most frequent skin lesions encountered at birth. They are composed of collections of melanocytes (pigment-forming cells) that show distinct clinical and histopathological features. GCMN may be precursors of melanoma, and it has been suggested that the presence of atypical foci could increase the risk of malignant transformation. Congenital melanocytic nevi occur in approximately 1 % of newborns and are usually classified according to their size. Giant congenital melanocytic nevi are most simply defined as melanocytic nevi that are greater than 20 cm in largest dimension; whereas small congenital nevi are defined as melanocytic nevi less that 1.5 cm in largest dimension. Giant congenital melanocytic nevi are associated with an increased risk of the development of melanoma. Giant congenital melanocytic naevus (GCMN) may be expected to affect the psychosocial functioning of children and their parents due to deviant appearance and painful treatment.