Linear Arrangement of Multiple Deep Penetrating Nevi

Deep penetrating nevus: a case report and brief literature review

“…DPN has distinct morphologic and histologic features. It is usually characterized by a sharply-demarcated, wedge-shaped lesion with its base in parallel with the epidermis andits apex oriented toward the subcutaneous fat or deep reticular dermis [ 1 , 3 - 6 ]. Oddly enough, this case revealed an exactly opposite architecture, with a deep base and an apex pointing toward the epidermis.…”

“…Oddly enough, this case revealed an exactly opposite architecture, with a deep base and an apex pointing toward the epidermis. DPN is composed of loosely arranged nests or fascicles of deeply pigmented nevus cells admixed with melanophages scattered throughout the dermis, even extending into the subcutaneous fat [ 1 - 6 ]. It is usually found closely associated with dermal appendages, such as hair follicles and sweat glands, as well as with blood vessels and nerves [ 1 - 3 , 6 ].…”

“…Deep penetrating nevus is a distinct variant of melanocytic nevus. It is characterized by its dark pigmentation, occurring mostly on the face, neck, or shoulder, and usually measures less than 1 cm in diameter [ 1 ]. Due to its striking histologic similarities with other cutaneous pigmented lesions, it is often difficult to recognize as a separate entity and is consequently misinterpreted as malignant melanoma [ 2 ].…”

The deep penetrating nevus

“…8,11 Typically, DPN present as a solitary lesion, however, a linear arrangement of multiple DPN over the preauricular cheek has been reported. 12 The lesions are most frequently black, blue, dark brown, or gray (or often a combination of these colors) (Fig 1) but have been rarely noted to be red or pink. 3 Patients may report a new or changing lesion because they are almost always acquired.…”

“…[1][2][3]7,9,10,12,13 However, perhaps because DPN can clinically and histologically appear similar to malignant melanoma, some clinicians re-excise DPN with margins. The earlier reports of DPN discuss that simple excision is curative and frequently mention that treatment is by complete excision.…”