What does the term nevus/nevi refer to?

The term nevus, or nevi in plural, specifically refers to a type of birthmark characterized by a cluster of pigmented cells that give it a distinct color, often brown or black. Nevi can be congenital, meaning they are present at birth, or they can develop later in life. They are generally benign skin growths that can be evaluated for any changes in size, shape, or color, which may indicate a need for further assessment due to risk of malignancy.

Regarding the other options, while skin anomalies may encompass a broader range of conditions and alterations in skin characteristics, not all of them fit the definition of a nevus. Serious skin disorders refer to conditions that have significant health implications and may require extensive medical intervention, which nevi typically do not. Temporary infant skin conditions can include a variety of common occurrences like milia or eczema that resolve on their own, and these are not classified as nevi. Therefore, the best-fitting description for nevus/nevi is that of a type of birthmark.