Evaluating Skin Lesions in Young Adults: A Case of Benign Nevi in a 25-Year-Old Female

By: Dr. Caroline Vaughn

Skin health and sun protection are vital topics for all age groups—but especially for young adults who are beginning to understand the long-term importance of sun safety and skin surveillance. At Village Dermatology, we frequently provide full-body skin exams for patients in Katy and Houston, Texas, helping them take proactive steps against skin cancer and other dermatologic concerns. In this case, we evaluated a 25-year-old female who presented for an assessment of enlarging and itchy skin lesions she had noticed over several years.

Patient Presentation

This patient reported moderately itchy, enlarging lesions located throughout her body. The lesions had been present for years but had never been evaluated or treated. She also expressed interest in sun protection education and guidance for preventing future skin cancer or atypical mole development.

She had no personal or family history of melanoma or non-melanoma skin cancers.

Comprehensive Skin Exam

A thorough, head-to-toe dermatologic evaluation was performed using dermatoscopy, which included:

• Scalp and hair

• Face, ears, neck

• Trunk and extremities

• Hands, feet, nails

The only notable findings were:

• Regular, symmetrical, evenly pigmented macules and papules consistent with benign nevi (commonly known as moles), found on the:

  • Upper back

  • Left upper back

  • Right forearm

  • Right ventral proximal forearm

No suspicious or atypical features were identified.

Diagnosis: Benign Nevi

Benign nevi are common in young adults and represent clusters of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) in the skin. They are typically uniform in shape, size, and color, and do not require treatment unless changes are observed.

In this case, the patient had no concerning lesions that warranted biopsy or removal.

Counseling and Education

Patient education is a key part of dermatologic care. We provided the following guidance:

Sun Safety & Skin Monitoring:

• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily, especially on exposed areas.

• Perform monthly self-skin checks to monitor moles for changes in:

  • Size

  • Shape

  • Color

  • New symptoms (itching, bleeding, burning)

When to Seek Medical Attention:

• If any moles become asymmetric, change appearance, or develop symptoms, the patient was instructed to contact our clinic promptly for reevaluation.

No Immediate Treatment Necessary

Since the nevi were consistent with benign characteristics and the patient declined full disrobing, we opted for observation and education. The patient was advised to continue regular self-checks and schedule an annual skin exam unless earlier evaluation is needed.

Why This Case Matters for Katy and Houston Patients

Many young adults assume that mole checks and skin cancer screening are only necessary later in life—but early intervention and education are key. At Village Dermatology, we specialize in personalized skin assessments, ensuring peace of mind for our patients while equipping them with the tools to monitor and protect their skin long-term.

Whether you're in Katy or Houston, now is the time to schedule a full-body skin exam and establish a baseline for your skin health.