Melanocytic nevi in very young children: The role of phenotype, sun exposure, and sun protection - 21/08/11
Brisbane, Australia
Abstract |
Background |
Melanocytic nevi are strongly associated with cutaneous melanoma, yet little is known about factors influencing nevus development in the first years of life.
Objective |
We sought to identify phenotypic and environmental factors associated with nevus counts in very young children.
Methods |
In a cluster prevalence survey, full body nevus counts and phenotypic assessments were conducted on 193 children aged 1 to 3 years. Information on each child's sun exposure and sun protection practices was obtained through parental questionnaire.
Results |
High total nevus counts were associated with heavy facial freckling, time spent outdoors on weekends in summer, and Caucasian ethnicity. Low nevus counts were associated with dark skin color, ability to tan, and frequent application of sunscreen. Frequent wearing of hats was specifically associated with low nevus counts on the face, but not at other sites.
Conclusions |
Nevi are common at a very young age among children in Queensland, Australia, and are associated with sun exposure and freckling. Diligent sun protection practices appear to reduce nevus burden, even after accounting for the effects of phenotype and sun exposure factors. Primary prevention strategies aimed at reducing sun exposure in very early life may be effective in reducing nevus prevalence and melanoma risk.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Plan
Supported by grants from the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (Australia Post Medical Research Fellowship) and the National Cancer Institute (CA 88363-01A1). Drs Whiteman and Purdie are both supported by Senior Research Fellowships from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia. Conflicts of interest: None identified. |
Vol 52 - N° 1
P. 40-47 - janvier 2005 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
L’accès au texte intégral de cet article nécessite un abonnement.
Déjà abonné à cette revue ?