Nevus of Setton: Doctor Lyudmila Artyushkevich explained what it is

Nevus of Setton, also known as halo nevus (from the Greek halo - circle), is a special type of mole that is characterized by the appearance of discoloration (depigmentation) of the skin around the formation.

This type of nevus is most often found in children, adolescents and people under 30. It can be located on the skin of the trunk and upper limbs, and less often on the face or scalp. Nevus can be either single or multiple.

Oncologist of the 1st category of the HappyDerm medical center Lyudmila Artyushkevich notes that the main reasons for the formation of halo nevus are disorders in the immune system.

Immune system cells attack melanocytes, which contain the pigment melanin, resulting in skin discoloration and the formation of Sutton spots.

Excessive tanning and hormonal changes (during adolescence) may predispose to the appearance of this nevus.

The main and distinctive symptom of nevus of Setton is the staged development, which goes through four stages, lasting several months or even years.

1. At the first stage, a small brown nevus appears on the skin.
2. At the second stage, a discolored area in the form of a rim forms around the nevus, which is 2-3 times wider than the mole itself.
3. In the third stage, the nevus in the center becomes lighter and disappears completely.
4. In the fourth stage, the color of the remaining rim is evened out and merges with the shade of the rest of the skin.

Diagnostics

For a more accurate diagnosis of Setton's nevus, dermatoscopy is performed once or dynamically. The typical clinical picture and staged development in many cases allow a specialist to make a diagnosis without difficulty. However, some types of melanoma may be similar to Setton's nevus.

Nevus of Setton - Treatment and Recommendations for Patients

Nevus of Setton is considered a benign formation, but in some cases requires differential diagnosis with melanoma.

If the exact diagnosis of Setton's nevus is beyond doubt, no treatment is required. However, patients are advised to see a doctor regularly to monitor the formation.

Usually, nevus of Setton disappears on its own within 2-4 years. However, if necessary, treatment can be performed by surgical excision of the nevus together with the depigmented rim, followed by histological examination of the formation.

Patients with nevus of Setton are advised to follow several guidelines.

First of all, you need to contact an oncologist for advice and to establish a plan for dynamic monitoring of the formation.

Further, patients should avoid increased ultraviolet radiation, both natural and artificial (in a solarium). It is recommended to use sun protection with SPF 50 and avoid accidental injury to the nevus.

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• 7 April 2023

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