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  • Presentation

Management of Histologically Dysplastic Nevi and AIMP

Description

In this presentation, Dr. Natalie Spaccarelli addresses the management of histologically dysplastic nevi and atypical intrapidermal melanocytic proliferations (AIMP). She emphasizes the lack of randomized control trials in the field and acknowledges the variability in management approaches among dermatologists, as drawn from surveys conducted over the years. Key findings from these surveys indicate that most dermatologists do not re-excise mildly to moderately dysplastic nevi with negative margins; however, the tendency to re-excise severely dysplastic nevi has increased. Consensus recommendations assert that mildly and moderately dysplastic nevi with negative margins can be monitored without re-excision, while severely dysplastic nevi with positive margins should be excised. Recent studies on re-excision versus observation indicate low melanoma development rates in both groups, underscoring the importance of individualizing patient management. Regarding AIMP, evidence suggests that these lesions generally warrant excision after biopsy. Dr. Spaccarelli also emphasizes the importance of communication with pathologists regarding excision decisions, documenting the complete removal of visible lesions, and educating patients about monitoring for changes. She concludes with practical recommendations for managing dysplastic nevi based on the existing consensus and her clinical experience.

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Conclusions

  • Management of histologically dysplastic nevi (HDN) varies among dermatologists, with most agreeing that mildly dysplastic nevi do not require re-excision if margins are negative.
  • Increased rates of re-excision of severely dysplastic nevi with negative margins were noted between 2015 and 2021 surveys.
  • Consensus recommendations suggest that mildly and moderately dysplastic nevi with negative margins do not require re-excision, while severely dysplastic nevi with positive margins do.
  • Recent studies indicate that biopsy margin status is not always a reliable predictor of complete lesion removal in dysplastic nevi, with up to 30% showing positive margins upon further sectioning.
  • The risk of melanoma development at biopsy sites is low, with similar rates for re-excised versus observed dysplastic nevi.
  • Moderately dysplastic nevi can be safely monitored when the entire visible lesion is removed, but patients should be counseled about increased melanoma risk elsewhere.
  • Pathologists' re-excision recommendations may vary, thus maintaining communication with them is crucial for appropriate management.
  • Atypical intraepidermal melanocytic proliferations (AIMP) often warrant re-excision due to their potential overlap with melanoma, highlighted by studies showing significant upstaging in excised specimens.
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