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Pigmented Birthmark

Pigmented Birthmark

Pigmented birthmarks are present at birth or appear on a child shortly after birth. An overgrowth of cells that create pigment in skin causes the birthmarks, which are usually harmless.

There are many kinds of pigmented birthmarks. Common types include:

  • Café-au-lait spots. These marks are the color of coffee with milk and can appear anywhere on the body. Your child may have one or more café-au-lait spots. These birthmarks are generally not a problem. If several café-au-lait spots are larger than 0.5 centimeters in younger children or 1.5 centimeters in older children, a doctor should evaluate them. This can be a sign of neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes abnormal growth of nerve tissues.
  • Moles. Also called nevi, moles usually remain for your child’s lifetime. Large or giant moles are more likely to develop into skin cancer. Moles can be tan, pink, brown or black in color. They may be flat or raised. Some moles may have hair growing out of them.
  • Mongolian spots. These are flat bluish-gray patches of skin usually found on the buttocks or lower back. These spots usually fade on their own by the time your child begins school. Mongolian spots are more common in people with darker skin, such as children of African, American Indian, Asian, Hispanic and southern European backgrounds.

Symptoms of pigmented birthmarks depend on what kind of birthmark it is. Symptoms can include birthmarks that are:

  • Flat or raised
  • Have regular or irregular borders
  • Are different colors (brown, tan, black, blue, purple)

Pigmented birthmarks generally do not cause health problems, but larger birthmarks, or those that may be irregular or rapidly changing, may need to be checked for early signs of skin cancer.

Diagnosis of Pigmented Birthmark

If your child shows signs of a pigmented birthmark, a pediatric dermatologist can perform a physical exam to make a diagnosis and look for any concerning signs.

Treatments

Treatment for pigmented birthmarks usually includes monitoring the marks for changes over time. Types of treatments include:

  • Melanoma screening. Large congenital nevi and moles should be checked periodically for any changes in size, shape and color. If a mole or birthmark ever bleeds or hurts, see your child's doctor.
  • Surgical removal. Giant and large congenital moles may be removed for cancer prevention and to help a child feel better about his or her appearance.

Key Points To Remember

  • Pigmented birthmarks are caused by an overgrowth of the cells that produce color in our skin.
  • There are three types of pigmented birthmarks: café-au-lait spots, moles and Mongolian spots.
  • Pigmented birthmarks can be flat or raised with regular or irregular borders and color that ranges from brown to black to blue.
  • Most pigmented birthmarks cause no health problems.
  • Some pigmented birthmarks can be removed; others should be monitored over a lifetime.

Support Services & Resources

Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.

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MedlinePlus

The U.S. National Library of Medicine provides more information about the causes, symptoms and treatment of pigmented birthmarks.

Genetics Home Reference

Large congenital nevi are discussed in-depth on this online resource maintained by the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Departments Treating This Condition