Birthmarks are a common phenomenon; the University of Maryland Medical Center estimates that as many as 10 in 100 babies have vascular birthmarks. Birthmarks are not typically painful or worrisome but may need additional treatment, depending on the type of birthmark that develops. One common area where you may see a birthmark develop is on the skin of the shoulders.
Process
Birthmarks usually form in two ways. Vascular birthmarks appear on the skin of the shoulder due to malformed pigment cells of blood vessels that do not develop properly while in the womb. Birthmarks can also be caused by excess melanin that clumps together in areas of the skin. Melanin is produced by melanocytes in your skin and creates the color of the skin tissue.
Types
Shoulder birthmarks come in several different types. Some of the most common include red, raised spots, called hemangiomas, macular stains and nevus flammeus, commonly referred to as "port-wine stains" due to their darker red to purple coloring. Moles, which consist of raised brown spots, are also commonly classified as birthmarks. Less common birthmarks include Mongolian blue spots.
Tests
When a birthmark appears on the skin before or after birth, certain tests may be done to ensure that the mark is truly a birthmark if it has a similar appearance to skin cancers, like melanoma. Moles especially are commonly tested in this manner. Testing is typically a biopsy, in which a sample of the tissue is removed so it can be examined for irregularities.
Treatments
Birthmarks that develop on internal organs often need treatment, but those that develop on the shoulder typically are left alone. Some birthmarks may be lightened through laser surgery or covered by using special cosmetic makeups if the mark significantly affects your appearance, as when you wear a strapless dress or swimsuit. Mole birthmarks may be removed surgically, especially if there is a worry that the mark may be cancerous or precancerous.
Dangers
All birthmarks should be examined by a physician regardless of their size, shape or color. Marks on the skin may look like a birthmark but may actually be a more serious condition, such as skin cancer. Skin cancer can progress and spread into other areas of the body from the original mark and in many cases can be deadly, especially without early discovery and treatment.
