Alternative Names
Strawberry mark; Vascular skin changes; Angioma cavernosum; Capillary hemangioma; Hemangioma simplex
Definition of Birthmarks – red
Red birthmarks are colored, blood vessel (vascular) skin markings that develop before or shortly after birth.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
There are two main categories of birthmarks.
Signs and tests
A health care provider should examine all birthmarks. Diagnosis is based primarily on the appearance of the skin lesion.
Treatment
Many strawberry hemangiomas, cavernous hemangiomas, and salmon patches are temporary and do not need treatment.
Expectations (prognosis)
Birthmarks rarely cause problems, other than cosmetic changes. Many birthmarks go away on their own by the time a child is of school age, but some are permanent.
Review
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 10/10/2010
