Digging into uncertainty: a case report on Spitz lesions

• Published in: Acta dermatovenerologica Alpina, Panonica, et Adriatica Vol. 33; no. 1; pp. 49 - 52
• Main Authors: Merzel Šabović, Eva Klara, Jejinić, Dragan, Pagon, Andreja, Jugovar, Nina, Hosta, Violeta
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Slovenia 01.01.2024
• Subjects: Diagnosis, Differential; Humans; Melanocytes; Melanoma - diagnosis; Nevus, Epithelioid and Spindle Cell - diagnosis; Nevus, Pigmented - diagnosis; Skin Neoplasms - diagnosis; Skin Neoplasms - pathology; Uncertainty
• ISSN: 1318-4458; 1581-2979; 1318-4458
• DOI: 10.15570/actaapa.2024.2

Spitz lesions represent a spectrum of melanocytic proliferations, and they include Spitz nevi, atypical Spitz tumors, and Spitz melanomas. Atypical Spitz tumors are intermediate melanocytic lesions with features between benign Spitz nevi and malignant Spitz melanomas. They often present a diagnostic challenge to pathologists and dermatologists alike because they can mimic melanoma, especially high-grade atypical Spitz tumors. Importantly, they present a relevant clinical management challenge because definite recommendations for their management and treatment have not yet been established. Here we present the case of a young patient with a high-grade atypical Spitz tumor along with the diagnostic procedure and further management. We also review potential pitfalls in the literature that should alert clinicians to the more aggressive potential of the lesion, such as some BRAF fusions.