Histologie Artifacts of Benign Pigmented Nevi

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Abstract
Artifacts of benign pigmented nevi presumed to be shrinkage during tissue-processing are described. These produce separation into clefts or nests leaving spaces that simulate lymphatic or vascular spaces. The artifact was found in 10% of 350 otherwise unremarkable benign pigmented nevi. Actual lymphatic invasion probably also occurs in benign nevi but was observed in only one instance. A second artifact results in nevus cells separating into parallel rows. The latter artifact was reproduced in ten experimental subjects by intralesional injections of local anesthetic, and involved from 10% to 90% of the cross-sectional area of the nevus. Knowledge of these artifacts can prevent misdiagnosis or subclassification of these histologie artifacts.