Large or multiple congenital melanocytic nevi: occurrence of cutaneous melanoma in 1008 persons.

BACKGROUND: There is a dearth of information regarding the occurrence of cutaneous melanoma in a large cohort of persons with large congenital melanocytic nevi (LCMN) or multiple congenital melanocytic nevi (MCMN).

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this article is to report our experience with 1008 persons having LCMN and MCMN.

METHODS: Information was evaluated that was obtained from a database of persons with LCMN or MCMN voluntarily submitted by the affected persons to a nevus support group, the Nevus Network.

RESULTS: Of those with garment LCMN, 2.9% developed cutaneous melanoma associated with 0.8% deaths. Of those with LCMN on the head or extremity, 0.3% developed cutaneous melanoma associated with no deaths to date. Of the small number with MCMN without a giant nevus, 6.7% developed cutaneous melanoma.

LIMITATIONS: Attending physician confirmation of submitted information was unavailable. Conclusions LCMN and MCMN were associated with a low occurrence of cutaneous melanoma in our group.