Vulvovaginal melanocytic lesions: a review

Pigmented lesions of the vulva and vagina occur commonly and can be challenging both clinically and microscopically. Vulvovaginal melanotic macules are the most common pigmented vulvar lesion. Mucosal vitiligo can be confined to the anogenital region. Acquired melanocytic nevi of the vulva comprise approximately 10% –12% of pigmented vulvar lesions. Blue and Spitz (spindled and epithelioid cell) nevi can occur rarely in the vulvovaginal area. Although pigmented and lentiginous in histologic appearance, melanocytic lesions associated with lichen sclerosus have a “trizonal” pattern of growth, similar to rec urrent nevi, which can be helpful in distinguishing them from melanoma.
Source: Diagnostic Histopathology - Category: Pathology Authors: Tags: Mini-symposium: skin pathology Source Type: research