Skin: Spitz tumors

Abstract

Note Neoplasms arising from melanocytes in the skin may be benign, in which case they are termed nevi, or malignant, in which case they are termed There are several variants of cutaneous melanocytic tumors, characterized by differing clinical and pathologic features. Spitz tumors include a group of cutaneous melanocytic tumors that share certain histologic features. Spitz tumors may be classified as Spitz nevi [which are benign], spitzoid melanomas [which are malignant], and Spitz tumor [a group of tumors whose biologic behavior cannot be accurately predicted on the basis of their histopathologic features] (Barnhill, 2006a; Barnhill, 2006b). Spitz nevi show characteristic cytologic and architectural features, described below. Only some of these characteristics are seen in atypical Spitz tumors and spitzoid melanomas.