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Stork bite

Salmon patch; Nevus flammeus

 

A stork bite is a common type of birthmark seen in a newborn. It is most often temporary.

The medical term for a stork bite is nevus simplex. A stork bite is also called a salmon patch.

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 the temperature changes. It may fade when pressure is put on it.

 

Symptoms

 

A stork bite usually looks pink and flat. A baby may be born with a stork bite. It may also 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 health care provider can diagnose a stork bite simply by looking at it. No tests are needed.

 

Treatment

 

No treatment is needed. If a stork bite lasts longer than 3 years, it may be removed with a laser 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.

 

When to Contact a Medical Professional

 

The health care provider should look at all birthmarks during a routine well-baby exam .

 

Prevention

 

There is no known prevention.

 

 

References

Enjorlras O. Vascular malformations. In: Bolognia JL, Jorizzo JL, Schaffer JV, et al, eds. Dermatology . 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Mosby; 2012:chap 104.

Habif TP. Vascular tumors and malformations. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology . 6th ed. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 23.

 
  • Stork bite - illustration

    A stork bite is a vascular lesion quite common in newborns consisting of one or more pale red patches of skin. Most often stork bites appear on the forehead, eyelids, tip of the nose, upper lip or back of the neck. They are usually gone within 18 months of birth.

    Stork bite

    illustration

  • Neonate - illustration

    A newly born infant is also called a neonate.

    Neonate

    illustration

    • Stork bite - illustration

      A stork bite is a vascular lesion quite common in newborns consisting of one or more pale red patches of skin. Most often stork bites appear on the forehead, eyelids, tip of the nose, upper lip or back of the neck. They are usually gone within 18 months of birth.

      Stork bite

      illustration

    • Neonate - illustration

      A newly born infant is also called a neonate.

      Neonate

      illustration

    A Closer Look

     

      Talking to your MD

       

        Self Care

         

           

          Review Date: 4/11/2015

          Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, medical director and director of Didactic Curriculum, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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