A CLINICOPATHOLOGICAL STUDY OF SMALL SYMPTOMATIC MELANOCYTIC NEVI IN A DEFINED POPULATION IN NORTHERN SAUDI-ARABIA

The clinico-pathological findings in 52 cases of small symptomatic mel anocytic naevi in a defined population in Northern Saudi Arabia are pr esented. 69.2% of the naevi were located on the head and neck, the oth ers on the trunk and limbs. 71% were intradermal naevi, 23% junctional naevi and 6% compound naevi. Malignant changes on histological examin ation were seen in; 3.8% of cases. Associated epidermoid cysts and inf lammatory changes were responsible for recent change in size and colou r in seven cases. Histopathological examination of all symptomatic mel anocytic naevi is important for recognition of early forms and precurs ors of malignant melanoma.