nevus
Meaning of nevus: A nevus, more commonly called a mole, is a benign cluster of pigment producing skin cells that can be flat or slightly raised.
Definition of nevus
A nevus, more commonly known as a mole, is a benign growth on the skin formed by a cluster of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives color to skin, hair, and eyes. A nevus is usually brown or black and may lie flat against the skin or be slightly raised.
Most people have several nevi, and the number, size, and appearance can change gradually over time, including new nevi appearing and existing ones slowly fading, particularly across childhood and adolescence. A nevus can be present at birth or develop later in life.
Because a nevus is a collection of pigment producing cells, changes in its size, shape, color, or border, or the appearance of a new nevus later in life with an unusual appearance, are among the features examined during a skin evaluation, since these characteristics can help distinguish an ordinary nevus from a lesion that warrants closer attention.
Also known as
Used in a sentence
The dermatologist examined the nevus on the patient's back and noted no change from the prior visit.
Good to know
Most nevi remain stable and benign throughout life, so a change in an existing nevus, or a new one appearing later in life with an unusual appearance, is what typically prompts closer evaluation rather than the presence of a nevus itself.
Word origin
Where “nevus” comes from
Formed from Latin naevus, meaning birthmark or mole.