Birthmarks

Symptoms

There are no symptoms of birthmarks. They simply are colored marks on the skin. One kind of birthmark can look very different from another kind of birthmark. Birthmarks can:

• Be flat or raised.
• Have regular or irregular borders.
• Be many different colors, including brown, tan, black, pale blue, blue-gray, pink, red, or purple.
• Be smooth or lumpy.
• Be thin lines of color or solid color.
• Be only on the surface of the skin or extend into the tissues under the skin.
• Grow quickly, remain the same size, shrink, or disappear over time.

All birthmarks need to be checked by a doctor. Most do not need treatment. Certain changes in a birthmark or certain types of birthmarks may need to be watched closely and/or treated. See a doctor if a birthmark:

• Bleeds.
• Develops an open sore (ulcer).
• Becomes infected.
• Interferes with normal functioning or vision.
• Grows suddenly or becomes painful.

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Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: March 25, 2009
Medical Review:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
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