Congenital Melanocytic Naevus: Assessment and Treatment

A large or giant congenital melanocytic naevus (CMN) is a pigmented birthmark present at birth or becoming apparent soon afterwards. Size, number, location, symptoms and associated findings vary, so care should be led by an experienced multidisciplinary team rather than a generic removal clinic.

Assessment and monitoring

Assessment may include skin examination, photographs and review for multiple naevi or neurological signs. Changes such as a new firm lump, ulceration, bleeding, rapid change or persistent pain require prompt specialist review. Individual melanoma and neurological risk cannot be inferred from a single population percentage.

Treatment choices

Options may include observation, symptom management, staged excision, tissue expansion, grafts or reconstruction. Complete removal may not be possible and surgery may not remove all melanoma risk. Decisions should consider function, symptoms, appearance, anaesthetic burden, scars, repeated procedures and the child or adult’s preferences.

Risks and support

Risks include bleeding, infection, wound problems, graft or flap loss, altered sensation, prominent scarring and further surgery. Psychological and peer support may be valuable, but distress should not be used to pressure someone into treatment. UK NHS or private price tables cannot substitute for an individual plan.

A real Revitalize patient experience

“The team at the clinic were simply phenomenal. Their expertise, compassion, and attention to detail made the entire process smooth and reassuring. I’m thrilled with the results and can’t thank them enough.”

This is one individual’s Revitalize experience and does not identify or verify a current provider or predict another outcome.

Independent background information is available in the NHS birthmarks guide. Revitalize can confirm only its currently contracted specialist and hospital through the contact route.

General information only.