Halo Nevus and White Patches

I just had half of a halo nevus removed this morning for biopsy.  I've read conflicting info about these type of nevi.  On the one hand, there are many articles stating that halo nevi are benign and should be left alone, that they are only cosmetically annoying.  Other articles I've seen say that halo nevi could be an indication of a close-by melanoma.  And some of these articles have mentioned vitiligo as another symptom of melanoma.  I recently (within the past 1/2 year) developed two small whitish patches on my face (cheeks).  On one side, the skin seems to be slowly returning to normal skin color.  What are your thoughts on this?  I'm scared.  I do have a family history of melanoma (my mother, who survived).  She thinks that her melanoma was caused by repeated sunburns as a child.  It was on her leg.  The mole I had biopsied today is on my back, almost in the middle.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the post it looks like you are talking about a halo nevus which it is a melanocytic nevus that develops a surrounding circle of depigmentation. It is not a melanoma but you have to keep an eye on it. Melanomas are usually >6 mm in size, with irregular borders, asymmetrical and dark in color. If you notice changes in the mole's/mark’s color, height, size or shape, you should have a dermatologist evaluate it. You also should have it checked if it bleeds, oozes, itches, appear scaly, or become tender or painful. Otherwise it should be left as such.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.