Abstract

Background: Spitz nevus (SN) is a heterogeneous group of melanocytic nevi that have been the subject of considerable debate due to their apparent similarity to melanoma (MM). Objective: This study was contributed to assess and analyse clinical outcomes of Iraq patients who have Spitz nevus. Patients and methods: The study enrolled 44 cases of Spitz nevus, which were classified into two groups: 24 cases of children and 20 cases of adults. The patients’ Spitz nevus was assessed by dermoscopy, which diagnosed all site locations and the histological subtypes of Spitz nevus. Additionally, the study determined the rates of quality evaluations in terms of symptoms, emotions, functioning, and social interactions. Results: A total of 44 cases were included in the study, comprising 24 children and 20 adults. The age range of the patients was between 20 and 30 years, with 22 cases. There were more female cases (31) than male cases (13). The rate of comorbidities was 25%. A family history was present in 18.18% of cases, exposure to sunlight in 54.55%, and hormonal changes in 38.64%. The most common lesion type was Spitz naevus, present in 18 cases, spitzoid melanoma in 11 cases, and spitzoid naevus in 9 cases. Regarding the anatomical location of the lesions, it was observed that 16 patients had them in the leg or thigh, 31.82% of patients had them in the head and neck, 22.73% of patients had them in the arm or shoulder, and 9.09% of patients had them in the foot or ankle. In terms of histological subtype, the following were identified: desmoplastic (13 cases), compound (14 cases), and pigmented (9 cases). Head and neck outcomes included face (4 cases), ears (7 cases), scalp (1 case), and neck (2 cases). Furthermore, quality of life was assessed in the patients, with the results indicating that the quality of life of children patients included symptoms at 65.20 ± 5.30 and social interactions at 60.15 ± 5.25. In contrast, the quality of life of adult patients included symptoms at 74.40 ± 21.07 and social interactions at 67.33 ± 6.08. Conclusions: Spitz nevus, a non-malignant skin lesion common in children and young adults, can resemble aggressive melanoma. Generally, healthy individuals aren’t significantly affected by these lesions. If irregularly shaped, fast-growing lesions are worrisome, consult a dermatologist for a diagnosis. Though not medically problematic, their psychological and social effects should be considered