Birthmarks are common, colored lesions on the skin that are present at birth or appear within the first few weeks of life. Birthmarks are broadly divided into vascular or red and pigmented or brown types. Most birthmarks are of no medical consequence, but some types may require monitoring.
Port-wine Stains
Port-wine stains, also known as nevus flammeus, are flat red or purple skin spots present at birth. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) notes these variably sized birthmarks most commonly occur on the arms, legs, face and neck. They grow with the child and may thicken with time. AAD cautions that port-wine stains involving the eyelids, forehead or both sides of the face may be associated with seizures or glaucoma. When they occur on the face, port-wine stains may be cosmetically disturbing. Laser treatments can significant fade port-wine stains in many people who undergo this treatment.
Macular Stains
Macular stains, also known as salmon patches, stork bites and angel kisses, are flat, light red birthmarks commonly found on the forehead, eyelids or neck. They are a form of vascular birthmark and pose no medical threat, advises the Yale-New Haven Children's Hospital. Macular stains on the face and eyelids typically disappear within the first two years of life, notes AAD. Those on the neck may persist into adulthood.
Hemangiomas
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), at least 2 percent of newborn babies have hemangiomas. They often are not apparent at birth, but typically become noticeable in the first weeks of life. Hemangiomas represent a cluster of abnormal blood vessels in the skin. Superficial hemangiomas, also known as strawberry patches, are bright red, raised growths. Deep hemangiomas are located deeper in the skin causing a purplish or bluish tint.
AAD explains that hemangiomas typically grow rapidly during the first year of life. Most stop growing at this time, and slowly fade and shrink with time. Approximately 90 percent of hemangiomas recede to being level with the skin surface by age 9, notes AAD. Uncommonly, hemangiomas may cause medical problems by intrusion on other structures such as the eye, mouth, throat, genitals or rectum. Treatments range from injections to reduce growth of the lesion to surgical removal.
Café-au-lait Spots
Café-au-lait spots are light brown, flat birthmarks. The Mayo Clinic advises these common birthmarks can occur anywhere on the body. They are typically of no medical consequence. Six or more café-au-lait spots, however, may indicate the presence of a genetic disorder, neurofibromatosis.
Congenital Nevus
Unlike most moles, which develop after age 2, the congenital nevus is a large, darkly pigmented mole that is present at birth. The Mayo Clinic advises these moles grow with the child, and most commonly occur on the trunk or scalp. There is a small risk of cancer arising within a congenital nevus later in life. AAP suggests these moles should be monitored to watch for signs of cancerous transformation such as variations in color, border irregularity or rapid growth.
