Salmon patch

Skin | Paediatrics | Salmon patch (Disease)


Description

Salmon patch is the name given to a very common group of birthmarks seen in babies.

Causes and Risk factors

The birthmarks are caused by expansions (dilations) in tiny blood vessels called capillaries. When a salmon patch occurs on the face, it is often called an angel kiss, and when it occurs on the back of the neck, it is known as a stork bite.

A stork bite is due to a stretching (dilation) of certain blood vessels. It may become darker when the child cries or the temperature changes. It may fade when you push on it.

These types of birthmarks are very common, and at least 7 in 10 infants will be born with one or more salmon patches.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Many capillary birthmarks such as salmon patches and strawberry hemangiomas are temporary and require no treatment.

For permanent lesions, concealing cosmetics might be helpful. Cortisone (oral or injected) can reduce the size of a hemangioma that is growing rapidly and obstructing vision or vital structures. Other oral medicines have been used experimentally with some success in these cases, as w 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. ...