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Birthmarks - pigmented

Definition

A birthmark is a skin marking that is present at birth. Birthmarks include cafe-au-lait spots, moles, and Mongolian spots. Birthmarks can be or other colors.

Causes

Different types of birthmarks have different causes.

  • Cafe-au-lait spots are common at or after birth. Someone who has many of these spots may have a genetic disorder called .
  • Moles are very common -- nearly everyone has them. Most moles appear after birth.
  • Mongolian spots are more common in people with darker skin.

    • Symptoms

    Each type of birthmark has its own appearance:

  • Cafe-au-lait spots are light tan, the color of coffee with milk.
  • Moles are small clusters of colored skin cells.
  • (also called Mongolian blue spots) are usually bluish or bruised-looking. They often appear over the lower back or buttocks. They are also found on other areas, such as the trunk or arms.

    • Other signs of birthmarks are:

  • Growth of hair from pigmented skin
  • (area that is different from the skin around it)
  • Textured skin that can be smooth, flat, raised, or wrinkled

    • Exams and Tests

    Your health care provider will examine your skin to make the diagnosis. You may have a to look for skin changes that are signs of cancer. Your provider may take pictures of your birthmark to compare changes over time.

    Treatment

    The type of treatment you have depends on the type of birthmark and related conditions. Usually, no treatment is needed for the birthmark itself.

    Large birthmarks that affect your appearance and self-esteem may be covered with special cosmetics.

    You may have surgery to remove moles if they affect your appearance or increase your risk for . Talk to your provider about how and when any of your moles should be removed.

    Outlook (Prognosis)

    Large moles that are present at birth may develop , a type of skin cancer. This is especially true if the mole covers an area larger than the size of a fist. The cancer risk is related to the size, location, shape, and color of the mole.

    Possible Complications

    Complications of birthmarks can include:

  • Skin cancer
  • Emotional distress if the birthmark affects appearance

    • When to Contact a Medical Professional

    Have your provider examine any birthmark. Tell your provider about any changes in the birthmark, such as these:

  • Bleeding
  • Color change
  • Inflammation
  • Itching
  • Open sore (ulceration)
  • Pain
  • Size change
  • Texture change

    • Prevention

    There is no known way to prevent birthmarks. A person with birthmarks should use a strong sunscreen when outdoors.

    References

    Gawkrodger DJ, Ardern-Jones MR. Pigmentation. In: Gawkrodger DJ, Ardern-Jones MR, eds. Dermatology: An Illustrated Colour Text. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 42.

    James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM. Disturbances of pigmentation. In: James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM, eds. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 36.

    Marks JG, Miller JJ. Pigmented growths. In: Marks JG, Miller JJ, eds. Lookingbill and Marks' Principles of Dermatology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 6.

    Schedule An Appointment

    Contact Atlanta Obsetrics and Gynaecology at The Womens Center Millennium Hospital - 404-ATL-BABY

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    Review Date: 11/18/2022

    Reviewed By: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.