Management of congenital melanocytic nevi in the plastic surgery clinic: Families′ expectations and their persistent concern about malignancy

Background Children with congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) were historically managed with surgical removal to lower the risk of malignant transformation. The evolving literature over the last decade has indicated a significantly lower risk than previously estimated. Indications for excision currently revolve around aesthetic and psychosocial concerns. This study describes and evaluates the perspectives and expectations of patients and families referred to a pediatric plastic surgery clinic on CMN management. Method A two-part questionnaire was administered before and after an initial clinic appointment to evaluate patient and family concerns of lesion growth, risk of malignancy, treatment expectations, and stigmatization. Results Thirty questionnaires were completed for 11 male and 19 female patients, mean age 9.2 years (1-25). Referring doctors (majority dermatologists) were rarely concerned about malignancy (8%), but parents listed it as a top reason for wanting the CMN removed (37%) and the most common expectation for the visit followed by information about surgical options and outcome. Before the clinic, 93% were at least "slightly" worried about CMN growth and 96% about malignancy, whereas 63% and 72%, respectively, after the clinic. Conclusions Families want information about surgical excision and are concerned about malignancy, indicating lingering misinformation or misconception about melanoma risk. For the majority, CMN removal remains at least slightly important, presumably for aesthetic reasons and remaining concern about malignancy. Involved health care professionals should assure reliable and coherent patient information about MM risk, indications for surgery and expected outcome to best support families' decision-making.