What are red birthmarks on the head? How are they different from other types of birthmarks? Get detailed information on the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for various red birthmarks, including strawberry marks, port-wine stains, and more.

Understanding Red Birthmarks on the Head

Red birthmarks are skin markings caused by blood vessels close to the skin’s surface, which develop before or shortly after birth. These vascular birthmarks can take various forms, including strawberry marks, cavernous hemangiomas, salmon patches, and port-wine stains. Each type of red birthmark has its own unique characteristics and potential effects.

Types of Red Birthmarks

Strawberry Hemangiomas

Strawberry hemangiomas, also known as strawberry marks, nevus vascularis, capillary hemangiomas, or hemangioma simplex, are a common type of red birthmark that often appear several weeks after birth. They are characterized by small, tightly packed blood vessels that give the birthmark a reddish, raised appearance, and they can occur anywhere on the body, but are most frequently found on the face and neck.

Cavernous Hemangiomas

Cavernous hemangiomas, or angioma cavernosum, are similar to strawberry hemangiomas but are deeper in the skin and may appear as a red-blue, spongy area of tissue filled with blood vessels.

Salmon Patches

Salmon patches, or stork bites, are very common, affecting up to half of all newborns. They appear as small, flat, pink spots made up of tiny blood vessels visible through the skin, and are most often found on the forehead, eyelids, upper lip, between the eyebrows, and on the back of the neck. Salmon patches may be more noticeable when an infant cries or during temperature changes.

Port-Wine Stains

Port-wine stains are flat hemangiomas composed of expanded capillaries. They can vary greatly in size, from very small to covering over half of the body’s surface area, and are most often located on the face. Port-wine stains on the face may be associated with Sturge-Weber syndrome.

Causes of Red Birthmarks

The cause of most red birthmarks, such as hemangiomas, is unknown. They are believed to be the result of the abnormal growth of blood vessels close to the skin’s surface. In the case of port-wine stains, the cause is an underlying malformation of capillaries.

Symptoms of Red Birthmarks

The primary symptoms of red birthmarks include visible markings on the skin that resemble blood vessels, as well as rashes or lesions that appear red in color.

Diagnosis and Examination

A healthcare provider should examine all birthmarks, and the diagnosis is typically based on the appearance of the birthmark. Additional tests, such as skin biopsies, CT scans, or MRI, may be used to confirm the presence of deeper birthmarks.

Treatment Options

Many red birthmarks, like strawberry hemangiomas, cavernous hemangiomas, and salmon patches, are temporary and do not require treatment. However, port-wine stains may need treatment if they affect the person’s appearance or cause other medical issues. Treatment options can include laser therapy, medication, or, in some cases, surgical removal.

Key Takeaways

• Red birthmarks are skin markings caused by blood vessels close to the skin’s surface, including strawberry hemangiomas, cavernous hemangiomas, salmon patches, and port-wine stains.
• The cause of most red birthmarks is unknown, but they are believed to be the result of abnormal blood vessel growth.
• Symptoms include visible red marks, rashes, or lesions on the skin.
• Healthcare providers can diagnose red birthmarks based on their appearance, and may use additional tests like skin biopsies or imaging scans.
• Treatment is usually not necessary for temporary red birthmarks, but port-wine stains may require treatment if they affect appearance or cause other medical issues.

FAQs

What causes red birthmarks on the head?

Red birthmarks on the head are caused by blood vessels close to the skin’s surface. The most common types are strawberry hemangiomas, cavernous hemangiomas, salmon patches, and port-wine stains, each with its own unique characteristics.

Are red birthmarks on the head common?

Yes, red birthmarks are relatively common. Salmon patches, for example, affect up to half of all newborns, while other types like strawberry hemangiomas are also quite prevalent.

Do red birthmarks on the head go away on their own?

Many types of red birthmarks, such as strawberry hemangiomas, cavernous hemangiomas, and salmon patches, are temporary and often go away on their own without the need for treatment. Port-wine stains, however, are more persistent and may require medical intervention if they affect appearance or cause other issues.

When should I see a doctor about a red birthmark on my child’s head?

It’s a good idea to have any birthmark examined by a healthcare provider, as they can help determine the type of birthmark and whether any treatment is necessary. This is especially important for larger or rapidly growing birthmarks, or those that may interfere with vision or breathing.