gms | German Medical Science

Background: The aim of this cross-sectional study is to provide information on subsite-specific densities of melanocytic nevi by age, sex, and in relation to the history of severe sunburns.

Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in Kaunas, Lithuania, on a sample of 484 children aged 1-2 years, 4-5 years, 9-10 years, and 14-15 years. The questionnaire provided information about the history of severe sunburns since birth. Site-specific numbers and densities of melanocytic nevi of all sizes and nevi 2 mm or greater were studied. We used log-linear and Poisson regression models to estimate the effects of age, sex, and severe sunburns on the nevus density.

Results: The predicted total body density of nevi shows a considerable increase up to the age of roughly 10 years. Thereafter, the density increase tapered off. Median densities of nevi were highest on the face. The median density of nevi on the upper arms is higher than on the forearms. Similarly, the median density of nevi on the thighs is higher than on the lower legs. Estimates of the relative nevus densities related to the history of severe sunburns tend to be small with the exception of the legs for nevi with a diameter of at least 2 mm (relative nevus density=2.09, 95%CI 1.49-2.93).

Conclusion: Nevus densities are highest on maximally or intermittently sun-exposed skin areas. With the exception of the legs among women, the subsite-specific ranking of nevus densities among adolescents follows a similar ranking as the skin melanoma incidence in Lithuania.