Additional treatments after curettage of congenital melanocytic nevi in the craniofacial region: A report from a single center in Japan

Abstract

Background

Congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN) is a benign skin lesion present from birth, which may present with a risk of malignant transformation if extensive. Curettage, a treatment method involving the removal of the superficial layer of the nevus, is often used in the early stages of life. However, recurrence of the nevus and postoperative scarring may present as problems. Additional treatments, such as resection and/or laser treatment, are regularly required after curettage, particularly in the craniofacial region. However, no systematic treatment strategy has been reported. This study investigated additional treatments used after curettage to treat CMN in the craniofacial region and compared the frequency of treatments with respect to specific sites.

Methods

CMN cases involving curettage as an initial treatment were retrospectively reviewed at Kyoto University Hospital between May 2019 and April 2022.

Results

This study comprised 23 cases. Curettage was performed at a mean of 3.8 (1–10) months of age. No additional treatments were provided for 80% of head CMN. Additional treatments were performed in all cases, including the forehead and cheek. Laser treatment was performed in 86% of eyelid CMN and 75% of nasal CMN. Tissue expansion and flap closure were used in 33% of forehead CMN and 33% of cheek CMN.

Conclusions

Additional treatments used for CMN in the craniofacial region varied in accordance with the lesion site.