RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Since 1987 we have run a Dermatologic Surgical Paediatric Outpatient Clinic (DSPOC) within the Children's Hospital in Bordeaux. OBJECTIVE: We analyse the consequences of an audit survey concerning the management of patients with congenital nevi (CN) seen at this clinic. METHODS: We reviewed the cases of 192 children examined and photographed at the DSPOC during the period January 1990-December 1997. Patients were contacted for a reassessment of their status. The management options chosen at the DSPOC were reviewed as well as the satisfaction of the patients or parents of young children. RESULTS: Of 192 children pre-recruited, 56 girls and 52 boys could be included in the survey. They were mostly European whites and 67% were <6 months of age at the first DSPOC visit. 65/108 (61%) had been operated following the first DSPOC visit. The mean follow-up based on the 1997-1998 survey was 33 months (8 months to 10 years). The size of the nevus, independently of location, influenced decision for early surgery. Another important factor was the estimated disfigurement risk (15% of decisions) mostly related to CN of the face. There was a significant risk of pigmentary recurrence around the scar in children operated before the age of 2, but long-term follow-up indicated a spontaneously regressive course. CONCLUSIONS: Nevus recurrence in cases operated early suggests a time-dependent phenomenon in nevogenesis. Early counselling is important. Early surgery seems associated with a better scar quality. Explanations concerning risks and outcome are best given with the cooperation of a surgeon and a dermatologist.
