All true regarding spitz nevus except:
## Core Concept
Spitz nevus, also known as benign juvenile melanoma or Spitz's juvenile melanoma, is a type of benign melanocytic nevus. It is characterized by a distinctive clinical and histopathological appearance. The condition often presents as a solitary, usually pigmented skin lesion that can resemble melanoma.
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
The correct answer, ., implies that option is the statement that does not hold true for Spitz nevus. Typically, Spitz nevi are known for their distinctive histological features which include the presence of spindle and/or epithelioid melanocytes. They are usually benign and have a characteristic symmetry, maturation pattern, and lack of significant cytological atypia.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A:** Typically, Spitz nevi present as solitary lesions, often on the face, legs, or buttocks, and are usually less than 1 cm in diameter. They can be pigmented or sometimes amelanotic. *This option might be a characteristic feature and thus incorrect as an "except" statement.*
- **Option B:** Histologically, Spitz nevi show a distinctive pattern of nests of spindle and/or epithelioid melanocytes that often extend into the dermis. *This might be a true statement regarding Spitz nevus.*
- **Option C:** The typical cytological features include large spindle and epithelioid melanocytes. *This could be a true statement about Spitz nevus.*
- **Option D:** This option is not provided, but based on the instruction, we are focusing on why the chosen correct answer is correct.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key clinical pearl is that while Spitz nevi are benign, their histological features can sometimes be confused with those of melanoma, making diagnosis challenging. The presence of symmetry, maturation of melanocytes with depth, and the absence of significant atypia are crucial in distinguishing Spitz nevus from melanoma.
## Correct Answer: D.