Birthmarks are patches of skin with a different color or texture than the rest of the skin that develop at birth or shortly afterwards. Most birthmarks are harmless and do not require any treatment, but some may be associated with certain health conditions or may affect the appearance or self-esteem of the individual.
Some birthmarks may be inherited, while others may occur randomly. The exact cause of birthmarks is not fully understood, but they are thought to be related to the development of blood vessels, pigment cells, or nerve cells in the skin. Birthmarks can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Family history of birthmarks
Maternal infections or medications during pregnancy
Premature birth or low birth weight
There are many types of birthmarks, but they can be broadly classified into two categories: vascular and pigmented.
Usually red, pink, or purple in color, vascular birthmarks can change in size, shape, or color over time. A few common types of vascular birthmarks include:
Hemangiomas are raised, bright red or purple lesions that appear quickly in the first year of life and gradually fade over time. They are more common in girls, premature babies, and twins.
A port-wine stain is a flat, dark red or purple patch that appears at birth and does not fade. It usually affects the face, neck, or limbs.
In fair-skinned babies, salmon patches are flat, pink or red patches found on the eyelids, forehead, nose, or back of the neck.
Pigmented birthmarks are caused by excessive pigment cells in the skin. They are usually brown, black, or blue in color and do not change much over time.
A cafe-au-lait spot is a light brown flat patch that is usually oval-shaped and has smooth or irregular borders. It usually appears at birth or develops in childhood, and may grow in size or number over time. More than six cafe-au-lait spots larger than 5 millimeters in diameter may indicate neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder.
In babies of Asian, African, or Hispanic descent, Mongolian spots are flat, blue or gray patches on the lower back or buttocks that usually fade by the age of five.
Congenital melanocytic nevus are raised dark brown or black moles that develop at birth or during the first year of life. They can be large (larger than 20 cm in diameter) and can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. They may vary in size, shape, or color and may grow hair.
In most cases, birthmarks can be diagnosed by a physical examination of the skin. However, some birthmarks may require further testing to rule out any complications.
Blood tests: These may be done to check for any bleeding disorders, infections, or hormonal imbalances that may be associated with some birthmarks.
Skin biopsy: This involves taking a small sample of the skin and examining it under a microscope to confirm the type and nature of the birthmark.
Imaging tests: These may include ultrasound, X-ray, MRI, or CT scan to check for any abnormalities in the blood vessels, bones, or organs that may be affected by some birthmarks.
Most birthmarks do not require any treatment, unless they cause any medical or cosmetic problems. Some treatment options that may be considered include:
Some types of birthmarks can be shrunk, lightened, or flattened with medications such as topical creams, oral drugs, or injections. Beta-blockers, such as propranolol, can be used to treat hemangiomas, while corticosteroids can be used to reduce swelling and inflammation.
The purpose of laser therapy is to destroy abnormal blood vessels or pigment cells in the skin with a high intensity light beam. There may be a need for multiple sessions to achieve the desired results for some types of birthmarks, such as port-wine stains, hemangiomas, or cafeau-lait spots.
The birthmark is cut out and stitched closed during surgery. A birthmark may be removed, corrected for a deformity or functional impairment caused by a birthmark, or corrected for a large, raised, or hairy birthmark, such as congenital melanocytic nevi. A scar can result from surgery or a skin graft may be necessary to cover it.
Cosmetic procedures: These may include makeup, tattooing, or camouflage products that may help conceal or cover up some types of birthmarks.
Birthmarks are mostly determined by genetic or developmental factors, but some general measures can help protect the skin and reduce complications.
Avoiding excessive sun exposure and using sunscreen to prevent sunburn and skin damage.
Keeping the skin moisturized and avoiding scratching or rubbing the birthmark to prevent infection or irritation.
Monitoring the birthmark for any changes in size, shape, color, texture, or symptoms that may indicate a problem or malignancy.
Consulting a dermatologist or a pediatrician for any concerns or questions about the birthmark or its treatment options.
