The Combined
Nevus.
A combination of two types of mole
Combined nevus
A type of mole of which there are many different types.
The Combined
What is a combined nevus?
If you have a combined nevus, you may think it looks a little strange. This benign mole consists of two (sometimes three) distinct moles within one lesion, typically a blue nevus and a compound (brown) nevus.
Who gets them?
As with most moles, anyone can have a combined nevus; however, the majority of combined nevi occur in children and young adults (the average age being around 30), but they can occur at any age.
What are the clinical features?
Combined moles are fairly distinctive.
Some of their common features include:
- A large size
- Borders that can be irregular
- Two colours (a brown part and a blue part)
Combined moles can look very similar to melanoma, so it is highly recommended to make sure your doctor checks them regularly for any signs of change.
Some signs that your combined mole may be dangerous include:
- An off-centre blue mole
- Your doctor sees a problem with the lesion during an exam
- You’re over 40, and it’s a newly grown mole
In these cases, your doctor will probably have to perform a biopsy.
Gallery of combined nevus
Please click on the images for details.
What’s the significance?
What is the significance of a combined nevus?
Combined nevi are typically benign and harmless; however, they can resemble melanoma.
If you’re concerned, you should consult a trained and experienced skin doctor. With a skin exam, your doctor will be able to make a more accurate diagnosis of this mole, and you may not need a biopsy.
When you get your combined mole assessed, the outcome will be one of three:
- It’s definitely a combined nevus, and there’s no need to worry or monitor. This is usually the case in children.
- It’s almost certainly a combined nevus; the doctor will take a photograph and monitor it to be sure.
- There are concerns that it is melanoma, and a biopsy is required.
Treatment of a combined nevus?
There is no treatment required for a combined nevus unless the mole has any feature of melanoma. For example, if you have a mole with an off-centre blue area or dermoscopic chaos in the lesion, or are an adult over 40 who suddenly grows this type of mole, then your doctor will perform a biopsy.
Always consult with your doctor for accurate medical advice.
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