Halo nevus is a mole

Nevus

Nevus is the medical term for sharply-circumscribed and chronic lesions of the skin. These lesions are commonly named birthmarks and moles. Nevi are benign by definition...

 that is surrounded by a depigmented

Depigmentation

Depigmentation is the lightening of the skin, or loss of pigment. Depigmentation of the skin can be caused by a number of local and systemic conditions. The pigment loss can be partial or complete...

 ring or 'halo'.

Causes

Halo nevi are caused when white blood cells target a mole. The cause for the attack is unknown.

Predilection

Halo nevi are estimated to be present in approximately 1% of the general population, and are found to be more prevalent in people with vitiligo

Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a condition that causes depigmentation of sections of skin. It occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation, die or are unable to function. The cause of vitiligo is unknown, but research suggests that it may arise from autoimmune, genetic, oxidative stress,...

, malignant melanoma, or Turner syndrome

Turner syndrome

Turner syndrome or Ullrich-Turner syndrome encompasses several conditions in human females, of which monosomy X is most common. It is a chromosomal abnormality in which all or part of one of the sex chromosomes is absent...

. All races and sexes are equally susceptible to this disease, although a familial tendency has been reported. The average age of onset is 15 years.

Treatment

As halo nevi are only of cosmetic significance, no treatment is required, and patients will be asymptomatic. Although halo nevi are harmless, it is important to monitor the lesion on regular basis. Watch out for any changes in appearance of existing or new halo nevi. If there is any change in appearance or is associated with pain, itch and infection, contact your doctor immediately to exclude the possibility of cutaneous melanoma.

External links

• Halo Nevus About.com article