Lunares

Lunares, in medical terminology, are pigmented skin lesions commonly known as moles or nevi. They result from clusters of melanocytes in the epidermis and/or dermis and can be present at birth or appear later. Lunares vary in color from light tan to dark brown or black, may be flat or raised, and can occur anywhere on the skin, including the scalp, face, trunk, and limbs.

Most lunares are benign and stable, though they can change over time. The main types of melanocytic nevi include junctional nevi (flat and pigmented, usually found in children), compound nevi (slightly raised, with both epidermal and dermal components), and intradermal nevi (raised and often skin-colored or brown). Other forms include blue nevi (blue-black due to deeper pigment), dysplastic or atypical nevi (larger with irregular borders that may resemble melanoma), halo nevi (a depigmented ring around the mole), Spitz nevi (often pink or tan and typical in children), and nevus spilus (a café-au-lait patch with darker speckles).

Clinical evaluation relies on visual inspection and, when needed, dermoscopy. Changes that warrant medical assessment include asymmetry, irregular or blurred borders, multiple colors, diameter greater than about 6 mm, and evolution in size, shape, or color. New symptoms such as itching, bleeding, or rapid growth also require evaluation. A biopsy or surgical excision is performed if a lesion is suspicious for melanoma or for cosmetic reasons. Most lunares do not require treatment; removal is considered for cosmetic preferences, diagnostic clarification, or prevention of potential complications in selected cases. Congenital nevi may be monitored, and larger lesions carry a greater, though still relatively low, risk of malignant transformation over time.

Epidemiologically, lunares are common across populations, and most adults have several. A higher total or atypical nevus count increases the risk of melanoma, underscoring the importance of regular skin checks and sun-protective measures.