Birthmark is defined as abnormal skin colouration since birth or a few weeks after birth. Most birthmarks are non-cancerous while some may pose health risks. Common birthmark pigmentations are pigmented birthmarks, macular stains, hemangiomas, and port wine stains.
Pigmented Birthmarks
Treatments for pigmented birthmarks include topical agents, laser treatments, and surgical removal.
Vascular Birthmarks
Treatments for vascular birthmarks include topical medications, oral beta blockers, corticosteroids, laser treatments, and surgery.
Pigmented Birthmarks
- Nevus of Ota and Nevus of Hori - slate-brown or blue/grey coloured birthmarks found on the face.
- Mongolian spots - bruised or bluish birthmarks found on the back or buttocks of babies.
- Cafe-au-lait spots - light brown to dark flat spots associated with neurofibromatosis if there are 6 or more spots.
- Nevi or moles - flesh-coloured to light-to-dark brown and should be checked for changes using the ABCDE method.
Vascular Birthmarks
- Macular stains - mild red marks that usually appear on the forehead and eyelids or the back of the neck.
- Hemangiomas - growths made up of many tiny blood vessels, commonly found on the face, trunks, arms, and legs.
- Port wine stains - flat pink, red, or purple marks caused by abnormal development of capillaries, commonly found on the face, trunk, arms, or legs.
Treatments for vascular birthmarks include topical medications, oral beta blockers, corticosteroids, laser treatments, and surgery.
