| Synonyms: | Leukoderma acquisitum centrifugum of sutton |
| Halo nevus | |
Halo nevus (also known as "Leukoderma acquisitum centrifugum," "Perinevoid vitiligo," and "Sutton nevus"[1]) is a mole that is surrounded by a depigmented ring or 'halo'.
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]
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. 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.