An update on Becker's nevus: Pathogenesis and treatment

Dermatol Ther. 2022 Jul;35(7):e15548. doi: 10.1111/dth.15548. Epub 2022 May 12.

Abstract

Becker's nevus (BN) manifests as a hyperpigmented, sometimes hypertrichotic plaque/patch over the chest and shoulder, and it is in the category of benign cutaneous hamartomas. BN has elongation and fusion of the rete ridge, keratotic plugging, sebaceous hyperplasia, smooth muscle hyperplasia, and hyperpigmentation of the basal/suprabasal layer histologically. This article highlights all issues involved in pathogenesis and treatment options of BN. According to current research, postzygotic ACTB mutations induce BN and Becker's nevus syndrome (BNS). Although several therapy strategies were utilized to treat the pigmentary and hypertrichotic aspects of BN, no definitive standard treatment was identified to far, and further research is needed to better educate BN care.

Keywords: Becker's nevus; clinical characteristics; lasers; pathological features; treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chronic Disease
  • Humans
  • Hyperpigmentation* / etiology
  • Hyperplasia / etiology
  • Hypertrichosis* / etiology
  • Hypertrichosis* / genetics
  • Nevus, Sebaceous of Jadassohn* / diagnosis
  • Nevus, Sebaceous of Jadassohn* / therapy
  • Skin Neoplasms* / etiology
  • Skin Neoplasms* / genetics