The aim of this study was to investigate the longterm cosmetic and oncologic results following early curettage of giant congenital melanocytic nevi (GCMN). Neonates with GCMN treated with curettage within 4 weeks of age and with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were evaluated at the outpatient department. Scar formation was evaluated by means of the patient and observer scar assessment scale (POSAS). Biopsy specimens were analysed. In 9 years, eight neonates were treated. The mean follow-up period was 5.6 years. Six (75%) patients developed re-pigmentation of the curetted skin, hypertrichosis returned in five cases. One patient developed hypertrophic scars, all others formed good scars. None of the patients developed a melanoma. Biopsy specimens showed nevus cells in the skin after curettage. In 50% of the patients curettage is followed by severe re-pigmentation. Since this treatment does not remove all nevus cells, long-term followup is essential to detect malignant transformation.
C.M.A.M. van der Horst, one of the authors of the article by 'L. H. Zaal et al., Results of early curettage of giant congenital melanocytic nevi; a report of eight cases and review of the literature', was mistakenly excluded from the author list.
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