Becker’s nevus
Overview
Becker's nevus (also naevus; pl. nevi or naevi) is a skin disorder predominantly affecting males. The nevus generally first appears as an irregular pigmentation (melanosis or hyperpigmentation) on the torso or upper arm (though other areas of the body can be affected), and gradually enlarges irregularly, becoming thickened and often hairy (hypertrichosis)
Symptoms
* Irregular patch of increased skin pigmentation * Hairy pigmented skin patch
Diagnosis
The earliest finding of Becker nevus is an asymptomatic irregular tan-to-brown patch, most commonly located over the shoulder, upper chest, or back. * Pigmentation may be subtle, and onset most commonly occurs in the peripubertal period. * The patch expands during the first several years as new irregular pigmented macules and patches develop at the periphery and coalesce with the larger patch.
Treatment
As Becker's nevus is considered a benign lesion, treatment is generally not necessary except for cosmetic purposes. Shaving or trimming can be effective in removing unwanted hair, while laser hair removal may offer a longer-lasting solution. Different types of laser treatments may also be effective in elimination or reduction of hyperpigmentation, though the results of laser treatments for both hair and pigment reduction appear to be highly variable.