Nevus Blue as a Sporadic Finding in a Patient with a Blue Toe?

Open Access Maced J Med Sci. 2018 May 15;6(5):855-858. doi: 10.3889/oamjms.2018.228. eCollection 2018 May 20.

Abstract

Background: Blue nevus is an interesting finding, which aetiology and risk of locoregional and distant metastasis have not yet been fully clarified. It may be inherited or acquired, with sporadic cases usually presented as solitary lesions. It is often localised in the area of the head and less often on the arms, legs or trunk. Blue nevi are formations with relatively low but still possible potential for switching to melanoma.

Case report: The patient we described was hospitalised for pronounced cyanosis of the small toe of the right foot, accompanied by painful symptoms at rest and pain symptoms for a few weeks. Using inpatient paraclinical and instrumental tests, the patient was diagnosed with cholesterol microembolism. During the dermatological examination, blue nevus on the contralaterally localised limb was also diagnosed as a sporadic finding. According to the patient's medical history, the finding had existed for many years, but in the last few months, the patient has observed growth and progression in the peripheral zone of the nevus without any additional clinical symptoms.

Conclusion: Due to the risk of progression to melanoma, the lesion was removed by radical excision, and the defect was closed by tissue advancement flap.

Keywords: blue nevus; cyanotic toe; microembolism; observation; sentinel lymph nodes; vasodilatation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports