The most common types are freckles and common moles. Dysplastic nevi are a type that may continue to appear even after age 35. Dysplastic nevus syndrome refers to the presence of multiple dysplastic nevi and melanoma in 2 or more first-degree family members. Borders are irregular and ill-defined. Have both flat and elevated areas.
Color ranges from tan to dark brown on a pink background.
May appear anywhere on the body, but most frequently found on the back, chest, buttocks, breast and scalp. Sunlight damage may play a part in distribution patterns of the nevi, but sun damage is not absolutely necessary, as the nevi appear on buttocks and female breasts, which are usually always covered. If you have a family history of dysplastic nevi or skin cancer, get regular physical examinations to detect any new lesions or changes in existing ones. These may be as often as every 3 months for high-risk individuals. Have a family member help check the areas of your body that are difficult for you to see.