Changing concepts of the junctional nevus and melanoma: review of the literature and report of case.

Abstract

Junctional nevus is the rarest type of oral nevus and only three well-documented cases have been reported. The present study adds a fourth case to the literature. Junctional nevus must be carefully differentiated from atypical melanocytic hyperplasia and malignant melanoma, which are clinically similar lesions. Because their malignant potential is uncertain, it is recommended that oral junctional nevi be completely excised. The classification of pigmented nevi of skin and mucous membrane and the concepts of their relationship to malignant melanomas have been changing. The authors recommend a classification for oral lesions based on the work of Sagebiel.