|
Definition:
|
|
Mongolian spots are flat, blue, or blue-gray skin markings near the buttocks that commonly appear at birth or shortly thereafter.
See also: Rashes
|
|
|
Alternative Names:
|
|
Mongolian spots; Congenital dermal melanocytosis; Dermal melanocytosis
|
|
|
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
|
|
Mongolian blue spots are common among those who are of Asian, East Indian, and African descent.
|
|
|
Symptoms:
|
|
Mongolian spots are noncancerous skin markings and are not associated with disease. The markings may cover a large area of the back.
Occasionally, Mongolian blue spots are mistaken for bruises, which can raise a question about possible child abuse. It is important to recognize that Mongolian blue spots are birthmarks, NOT bruises.
Symptoms include:
- Blue or blue-gray spots on the back, buttocks, base of spine, shoulders, and other body areas
- Flat area with irregular shape and unclear edges
- Normal skin texture
- The spots are usually 2 - 8 centimeters wide
|
|
|
Signs and tests:
|
|
No tests are needed. Your doctor can diagnose this condition by looking at the skin.
|
|
|
Treatment:
|
|
No treatment is necessary or recommended.
|
|
|
Expectations (prognosis):
|
|
The spots often fade in a few years and are almost always gone by adolescence.
|
|
|
Complications:
|
|
There are no complications.
|
|
|
Calling your health care provider:
|
|
All birthmarks should be examined by a health care provider during the routine newborn examination.
|
|
|
References:
|
|
James WD, Berger TG, Elston DM, eds. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011.
|
|
