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This quiz will test your knowledge of benign melanocytic naevi.
Melanocytic naevi may be congenital or acquired. Melanocytes are normally separated from each other along the basal layer of the epidermis, but in naevi they form nests in contact with each other within the epidermis and/or dermis. They may be found on any cutaneous or mucosal site. Groups of benign naevus cells are sometimes also found in lymph nodes, where they are known as ‘rests’.
For each of the twelve cases, study the image(s) and then answer the questions. You can click on the image to view a larger version if required.
Each case should take approximately 2 minutes to complete. There is a list of suggested further reading material at the end of the quiz.
When you finish the quiz, you can download a certificate.
What is this skin lesion?
Spitz naevus.
What are its clinical features?
A Spitz naevus is a special kind of acquired melanocytic naevus, sometimes difficult to distinguish from a melanoma. The pink variety usually arises in young children and may involute within a few years. Darker papules can appear quite alarming, and are often spindle cell naevi on histology (Reed type).