DYSPLASTIC NEVUS Meaning and
Definition
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Dysplastic Nevus is a term used in dermatology to describe an atypical mole or melanocytic nevus. These moles are characterized by certain features that differentiate them from regular moles. Dysplastic nevi are typically larger in size, measuring more than 5 millimeters in diameter, and have irregular shapes. They often exhibit asymmetry, meaning that one half of the mole does not match the other half. The edges of a dysplastic nevus may be uneven or notched, and the color may vary within the mole itself, with shades of tan, brown, black, or sometimes pink.
Histologically, dysplastic nevi show abnormal cellular growth patterns within their structure. Specifically, there is a proliferation of melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin, and these cells may be larger and more irregularly shaped compared to normal moles. The presence of architectural disorder in the junctional and dermal components is also characteristic of dysplastic nevi.
Dysplastic nevi are generally considered to be benign and harmless; however, they carry an increased risk of developing into melanoma, a potentially deadly form of skin cancer. Individuals with dysplastic nevi are therefore advised to regularly monitor their moles for any changes in size, shape, color, or other suspicious features, and seek medical attention if such changes are observed. Biopsy or excision of dysplastic nevi may be recommended in certain cases for further examination and to rule out melanoma.
Common Misspellings for DYSPLASTIC NEVUS
- sysplastic nevus
- xysplastic nevus
- cysplastic nevus
- fysplastic nevus
- rysplastic nevus
- eysplastic nevus
- dtsplastic nevus
- dgsplastic nevus
- dhsplastic nevus
- dusplastic nevus
- d7splastic nevus
- d6splastic nevus
- dyaplastic nevus
- dyzplastic nevus
- dyxplastic nevus
- dydplastic nevus
- dyeplastic nevus
- dywplastic nevus
- dysolastic nevus
- dysllastic nevus
Etymology of DYSPLASTIC NEVUS
The term "dysplastic nevus" is derived from two different sources.
Firstly, "nevus" is a Latin term that means "birthmark" or "mole". It was borrowed from Latin into English in the mid-19th century.
Secondly, "dysplastic" is a medical term derived from Greek. The prefix "dys-" means "abnormal" or "impaired", and "plastic" comes from the Greek word "plassein", meaning "to mold" or "to form". In a medical context, "dysplasia" refers to abnormal growth or development of cells or tissues.
Therefore, when combined, "dysplastic nevus" refers to an abnormal or atypical mole, typically with irregular color, shape, or pattern, that may raise concerns about the increased risk of developing melanoma.
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