A 'naevus' is commonly known as a?

A 'naevus' is commonly recognized as a mole, which is a type of skin lesion that can appear on various parts of the body. Moles are usually benign and are formed by clusters of pigmented cells, specifically melanocytes. They can vary in color, from tan to dark brown, and can be flat or raised. Understanding this term is important in the field of esthetics, as moles can affect the appearance of the skin and may also be of concern if they change over time, prompting a need for further evaluation.

In contrast, a birthmark refers to a permanent mark on the skin that appears at or shortly after birth and is not synonymous with a naevus, even though some moles can be present at birth. Scars, which result from the healing process after an injury, and warts, which are growths caused by viral infections, also do not correlate with the definition of a naevus. Recognizing these distinctions helps in accurate identification and appropriate care for various skin conditions.