Inflamed Blue Nevus

A multiplicity of colors in a pigmented lesion usually dictates the need for a biopsy. In this woman with many nevi and a history of malignant melanoma, biopsy revealed an inflamed blue nevus and was also curative.

A 37-year-old woman with many nevi and a strong family history of malignant melanoma was having total body skin screenings every 6 months. An asymptomatic but irregularly pigmented macule was found on the right upper arm.

Key point: Considering the history and the rather unusual appearing lesion (multicolored), an excisional biopsy was performed. Histology revealed inflamed blue nevus.

Treatment: The biopsy was also curative for this benign melanocytic lesion.

Note: Multiplicity of colors in a pigmented lesion usually dictates that at least a biopsy be performed. Total removal is preferable, when feasible.