dysplastic nevi

[Laura__0__0]

Posted by Laura on July 24, 1999 at 09:17:56
My daughter has this condition and is followed at Johns Hopkins. I know that this is a genetic condition, but there is no history of it or melanoma on either side of the family. Is it possible that she contracted this in utero from all of my sunbathing during pregnancy, or that my DNA changed over the years before I got pregnant with her? I am not looking for guilt, I am just curious from an academic point of view. Thanks.

Posted by DERM M.D. ASR on July 25, 1999 at 11:39:15
Laura:
Some people have only a few dysplastic nevi.  Those who have many sometimes have family members who have them too.
The term "dysplastic" is much more muddled than it sounds.  There are various criteria of appearance in the flesh and under the microscope which set these moles apart as "funny looking," and these differ among clinicians and pathologists to an extent you might find surprising.
Two things are clear, though: Just because a mole is considered does not mean it is automatically precncerous.  And whatever causes them if anythning, environmental changes in the mother (like sunbathing during pregnancy) are not involved.
Regular checkups, prudent but not excessive sun protection, and biopsy tests if needed, are all your child is likely to require.
Best.
Dr. R
Keywords: nevus, dysplastic, Rockoff

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