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Blue Nevus

This patient information and photograph on Blue Nevi is provided by John L. Meisenheimer, M.D. a board certified Dermatologist and skin care specialist based in Orlando, Florida.  This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician.

What is it?    A blue nevus is a harmless, dark-blue to gray-to-black, well defined spot or bump on the skin.  Mole like cells grow deeper in the skin than regular surface moles.  The deep location of the "mole cells" in the skin change the surface color from the typical brown to a blue black color.

What causes it?    A blue nevi is usually first noticed in late adolescence and can occur in either males or females.  Appearance is gradual and often not even noticed by the patient.

Is it dangerous?    A blue nevus is a harmless growth, however should a sudden change in appearance occur, I would recommend having it examined by a Dermatologist.  Blue nevi are usually just a cosmetic concern, and nearly always asymptomatic.

Can it be cured?    Excision of a blue nevus is usually curative.  Because of their dark color they can be sometimes mistaken for melanoma. In rare cases blue nevi may go away on their own.

Will it spread?    Blue nevi do not spread.  They are most commonly seen on hands and feet, but other areas can be affected.

Is it contagious?    It is not contagious and you cannot "catch it" from anyone.
 

John L. Meisenheimer, M.D.  2004                                   WWW.OrlandoSkinDoc.com

Last modified: 08/27/06