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Nevus flammeus nuchae

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This is an old revision of this page, as edited by Stu.W UK (talk | contribs) at 02:18, 21 March 2011 (added extra ref, altered prevalence due to conflicting info (article says 2 different numbers at the moment and the additional ref has a third!)). The present address (URL) is a permanent link to this revision, which may differ significantly from the current revision.

Nevus flammeus nuchae

Nevus flammeus nuchae, also known as a stork bite, is a congenital capillary malformation present in 25%-50% of newborns.[1] It is a common type of birthmark in a newborn and is usually temporary.[2]

Causes

Stork bites occur in about one third of all newborns. A stork bite is due to a stretching (dilation) of certain blood vessels. It may become darker when the child cries or room temperature changes. It may fade when you push on it.

Symptoms

A stork bite usually looks pink and flat. A baby may be born with a stork bite, or the birthmark may appear in the first months of life. Stork bites may be found on the forehead, eyelids, nose, upper lip, or back of the neck.

Exams and Tests

A doctor can diagnose a stork bite with a simple visual inspection. No tests are needed.

Treatment

No treatment is needed. If a stork bite lasts longer than 3 years, it may be removed using laser surgery to improve the person's appearance.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Most stork bites on the face go away completely in about 18 months. Stork bites on the back of the neck usually do not go away.

See also

References

  1. ^ http://www.cyh.com/HealthTopics/HealthTopicDetails.aspx?p=114&np=304&id=1589
  2. ^ James, William; Berger, Timothy; Elston, Dirk (2005). Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. (10th ed.). Saunders. Page 169. ISBN 0721629210.