Health Encyclopedia

Mongolian blue spots

Definition

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

Alternative Names

Mongolian spots; Congenital dermal melanocytosis; Dermal melanocytosis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

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

Symptoms

Mongolian spots are non-cancerous skin markings and are not associated with disease. The markings may cover a large area of 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, shouders, and other body areas
Flat area with irregular shape and unclear edges
Normal skin texture

Signs and tests

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

Treatment

No treatment is necessary or recommended.

Expectations (prognosis)

The bluish discoloration often fades in a few years and is almost always gone by adolescence.

Complications

There are no complications.

Calling your health care provider

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

Review Date:4/16/2007
Reviewed By:Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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