A clinico-pathological study of small symptomatic melanocytic naevi in a defined population in Northern Saudi Arabia

The clinico-pathological findings in 52 cases of small symptomatic melanocytic naevi in a defined population in Northern Saudi Arabia are presented. 69.2% of the naevi were located on the head and neck, the others on the trunk and limbs. 71% were intradermal naevi, 23% junctional naevi and 6% compound naevi. Malignant changes on histological examination were seen in; 3.8% of cases. Associated epidermoid cysts and inflammatory changes were responsible for recent change in size and colour in seven cases. Histopathological examination of all symptomatic melanocytic naevi is important for recognition of early forms and precursors of malignant melanoma.