The birthmarks are areas of skin with color alterations that are found on the baby's body when it is born or a few weeks after birth. More than 80% of babies have some birth mark, making them an extremely common and natural phenomenon.
What are birthmarks?
Birthmarks are marks or marks on the skin that may appear before birth or shortly after birth. These marks vary considerably in shape, size, color, and texture, and while most are harmless, some may require medical attention depending on their type and location.
There are two main types of birthmarks:
- Vascular markings: They are caused by abnormal development of blood or lymphatic vessels beneath the surface of the skin. They range in color from pink to deep red, strawberry or purple.
- Pigmented markings: They appear due to abnormal development of pigment cells. Their color usually varies between light brown, gray, black or blue.
Most disappear or reduce over time, although Others may remain for life.
Causes and factors of birthmarks
Although the exact causes of birthmarks are not fully understood, it is known that none are related to mistakes or habits during pregnancy. Doctors believe that they may be the result of abnormalities in the development of blood vessels, pigment or certain tissues during fetal formation.
Some birthmarks have a genetic predisposition and can be hereditary. However, this is not always the case.
Types of vascular marks
Birthmarks of vascular origin are usually distinguished by their reddish or pinkish colors and are directly related to blood vessels. Below we describe the most common types:
1. Salmon spots
Also called “angel kisses” or “stork bites,” these flat pink spots are extremely common and usually appear on the eyelid, between the eyebrows, the nape of the neck, or the forehead. These marks usually fade on their own between the 1 and 3 years of the baby.
2. Hemangiomas
Hemangiomas are reddish or bluish marks that can be superficial (strawberry spots) or deep. They grow rapidly during the first months of life and tend to disappear before the baby is 18 years old. 10 years In most cases, if they interfere with essential functions such as vision or eating, they may require specialized medical treatment.
3. Port wine stains
These flat spots range in color from light pink to dark red and usually appear on the face, neck, or limbs. Unlike other vascular marks, These do not disappear on their ownIf left untreated, they may darken or thicken over time. The most common treatment is pulsed laser.
Types of pigmented marks
Pigmented birthmarks are the result of an unusual accumulation of melanocytes in a specific area of the skin. Common birthmarks include:
1. Coffee with milk stains
These spots are café-au-lait in color, flat and oval in shape. They are usually harmless, but multiple large spots may be associated with genetic conditions such as neurofibromatosis.
2. Moles
Moles, or congenital nevi, are present at birth or appear in the first few years of life. They can be flat or raised, and range in color from light brown to black. It is important to monitor their development. size and texture due to the risk that some may transform into melanomas.
3. Mongolian spots
These bluish or grayish spots commonly appear on the lower back or buttocks of babies with dark skin, such as those of Asian, African, or Hispanic descent. Although they may look like bruises, They are completely harmless and usually disappear when they reach school age.
When to consult the doctor?
There are certain signs that indicate the need to go to a pediatrician or pediatric dermatologist:
- If the stain rapidly increases in size.
- When the mark causes discomfort such as itching, pain or bleeding.
- In case of multiple large café-au-lait spots, as they could be associated with genetic disorders.
- If a port wine stain appears on sensitive areas such as the eyelids, they may be linked to neurological conditions.
In many cases, your doctor may recommend a treatment. with laser for vascular marks or surgery for large congenital moles.
Available Treatments
While many birthmarks fade over time, some may require specific interventions:
- To be: used primarily for port wine stains or large hemangiomas.
- Surgery: in cases of large congenital moles.
- Medication: to control the growth of problematic hemangiomas.
The decision to treat a birthmark will always depend on its location, size, associated symptoms and whether it affects the child's self-esteem.
Birthmarks, though common, carry a significant emotional burden for some parents, especially if they are visible or conspicuous. However, thanks to medical advances, there are safe and effective options to treat them when necessary.
My son had a light brown spot when he was born on his back now it has spread it has more spots like splashes are coming to the side of the nipple and dark brown and general medicine has sent him a scrape and what to do with dermatology I'm worried
I also have that stain and I don't know how to make it disappear
I was born with a large brown stain on the part of the buttock, so I would like to know how I do to eliminate this stain at least I would like a recommendation I am 15 years old and I still don't know what to do with this stain