The "Abtropfung" theory that nevi develop through the migration of nevus cells from the epidermis to the dermis prevailed for almost a century until the "Hochsteigerung" theory postulated the reverse pattern of migration. Most recently, however, new insights gained from epidemiology, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies of nevi, dermoscopy and confocal microscopy, and cellular and molecular studies have brought into question both of these theories. This book provides a comprehensive guide to current knowledge about nevogenesis by presenting these latest advances and in addition discusses issues yet to be resolved. It will assist practicing physicians in effectively managing patients with a variety of nevi and will also be of great value to researchers in the field. Importantly, since nevi are associated with an increased risk of melanoma, understanding nevogenesis may help to unravel some of the mysteries of melanomagenesis.

Nevogenesis: Changing Theories

Classifying Melanocytic Nevi
Evolution of Nevi
The Dual Pathway of Nevogenesis
Confocal Microscopy: Improving Our Understanding of Nevogenesis
Nevi In Children And Adults: Dermoscopic Patterns And The Development of New Nevi
Etiology of Congenital Melanocytic Nevi And Related Conditions
Molecular Nevogenesis
Nevogenesis: A Benign Metastatic Process?
Nevus Senescence
Gene-Environment Interactions In Nevogenesis
Malignant Transformation of Melanocytic Nevi
Disappearance of Melanocytic Nevi.