Halo nevus

Halo nevi are also known as Sutton's nevi, or leukoderma acquisitum centrifugum. Halo nevi are named such because they are a mole (nevus) that is surrounded by an area of depigmentation that resembles a halo.

Halo nevi are associated with vitiligo. Sometimes the pale (hypopigmented) areas will spontaneously regress, and pigment returns.

The formation of a halo surrounding a nevi is believed to occur when certain white blood cells called CD8+ T lymphocytes destroy the pigment-producing cells of the skin (melanocytes).[2] The cause for the attack is unknown.[3]

Photograph of a halo nevus on a face

As halo nevi are only of cosmetic significance, no treatment is required,[4] and patients will be asymptomatic. Although halo nevi are harmless, it is important to monitor the lesion on regular basis.[5] 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, a doctor should be consulted immediately to exclude the possibility of melanoma.

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, malignant melanoma,[3] or Turner syndrome.[6] All races and sexes are equally susceptible to this disease, although a familial tendency has been reported. The average age of onset is in a person's teenage years.

• Nevus
• List of cutaneous conditions