Medical Health Encyclopedia

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Mongolian blue spots Skin layers

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Birthmarks - pigmented

Alternative Names: Nevus sebaceous; Hairy nevus; Nevi; Mole; Cafe-au-lait spots; Congenital nevus Treatment: Treatment varies depending on the type of birthmark and associated conditions. Usually no treatment is required for the birthmark itself. Text Continues Below Large or prominent nevi that affect the appearance and self-esteem may be covered with special cosmetics. Moles may be removed surgically if they affect the appearance or if they have an increased cancer risk. Be sure to discuss your options with your doctor to decide how and when to remove any moles. Support Groups: The Nevus Outreach (www.nevus.org) provides support for patients with large birthmarks. Expectations (prognosis): Congenital nevi pose an increased cancer risk and should be examined. Complications: Skin cancer Psychological effects, if the birthmark is prominent Calling your health care provider: All birthmarks should be examined by a health care provider to determine the prognosis (probable outcome), course of action, and possible complications. Call for an appointment with your provider if any change occurs in color, size, or texture of a nevus or other skin lesion. Call for an appointment with your provider if there is development of pain, inflammation, ulceration, bleeding or itching of a congenital nevus or other skin lesion, or if you have questions or concerns.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.