Here we present an overarching view of our current knowledge and understanding of Spitz tumors, detailing clinical, histopathological and molecular features characteristic of these lesions. Keywords: spitz, spitz nevus, atypical spitz nevus, spitzoid melanoma, spitzoid lesions. An atypical or spitzoid naevus may have more than one pattern, asymmetry of structure, and unusual dermatoscopic features.

Understanding the Context

In older children and adults, the diagnosis of Spitz naevus is usually confirmed by an excisional skin biopsy. Spitzoid lesions exist on a spectrum from harmless to cancerous, divided into three main categories. A pathologist determines the classification by examining the microscopic features of the cells within the lesion, such as their size, shape, and growth pattern. Spitzoid melanoma is diagnosed on skin biopsy of an enlarging nodule.

Key Insights

Histologically and cytologically, Spitzoid melanomas share common features with Spitz naevi. Unlike conventional melanoma, spitzoid melanoma often appears in younger individuals and can present with atypical features that complicate its diagnosis. Despite its rarity, understanding its unique characteristics is crucial for dermatologists and oncologists. Melanomas that have histopathologic features that overlap with those of Spitz nevus are referred to as spitzoid melanomas. However, the diagnostic concept is used inconsistently and genomic analyses suggest it is a heterogeneous category.

Final Thoughts

Spitzoid melanoma is a type of skin cancer. It appears as a small, even mole. The mole may be pinkish or it may match your skin. Atypical Spitz tumors are usually larger (> 5 - 10 mm) than Spitz nevi and show some worrisome histological features, such as asymmetry, pagetoid scatter in the periphery of the tumor, moderate nuclear pleomorphism and hyperchromatic nuclei