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Definition:
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A stork bite is a common type of birthmark seen in a newborn. It is most often temporary.
The medical term for a stork bite is nevus simplex. A stork bite is also called a salmon patch.
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Alternative Names:
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Salmon patch; Nevus flammeus
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Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
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Stork bites occur in about one third of all newborns.
A stork bite is due to a stretching (dilation) of certain blood vessels. It may become darker when the child cries or the temperature changes. It may fade when you push on it.
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Symptoms:
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A stork bite usually looks pink and flat. A baby may be born with a stork bite, or the birthmark may appear in the first months of life. Stork bites may be found on the forehead, eyelids, nose, upper lip, or back of the neck.
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Signs and tests:
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A doctor can diagnose a stork bite simply by looking at it. No tests are needed.
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Treatment:
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No treatment is needed. If a stork bite lasts longer than 3 years, it may be removed with a laser to improve the person's appearance.
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Expectations (prognosis):
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Most stork bites on the face go away completely in about 18 months. Stork bites on the back of the neck usually do not go away.
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Calling your health care provider:
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All birthmarks should be examined by the health care provider during a routine well-baby examination.
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Prevention:
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There is no known prevention.
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References:
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Habif TP. Vascular tumors and malformations. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier;2009:chap 23.
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