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Mongolian blue spots

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Mongolian blue spots
Mongolian blue spots
Neonate
Neonate

Alternative Names    Return to top

Mongolian spots; Congenital dermal melanocytosis; Dermal melanocytosis

Definition    Return to top

Mongolian spots are flat, blue, or blue-gray skin markings that commonly appear at birth or shortly thereafter.

See also: Rashes

Causes    Return to top

Mongolian blue spots are common among darker skinned persons, such as those who are of Asian, East Indian, and African descent.

Symptoms    Return to top

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:

Exams and Tests    Return to top

No tests are needed. Your doctor can diagnose this condition by looking at the skin.

Treatment    Return to top

No treatment is necessary or recommended.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

The spots often fade in a few years and are almost always gone by adolescence.

Possible Complications    Return to top

There are no complications.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

All birthmarks should be examined by a health care provider during the routine newborn examination.

Update Date: 4/10/2009

Updated by: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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