Mongolian blue spots are common among those who are of Asian, East Indian, and African descent.
Symptoms
Mongolian spots are noncancerous skin markings and are not associated with disease. The markings may cover a large area of the back.
Occasionally, Mongolian blue spots are mistaken for bruises, which can raise a question about possible child abuse. It is important to recognize that Mongolian blue spots are birthmarks, NOT bruises.
Symptoms include:
Blue or blue-gray spots on the back, buttocks, base of spine, shoulders, and other body areas
Flat area with irregular shape and unclear edges
Normal skin texture
The spots are usually 2 - 8 centimeters wide
Signs and tests
No tests are needed. Your doctor can diagnose this condition by looking at the skin.
Treatment
No treatment is necessary or recommended.
Expectations (prognosis)
The spots often fade in a few years and are almost always gone by adolescence.
Complications
There are no complications.
Calling your health care provider
All birthmarks should be examined by a health care provider during the routine newborn examination.
References
James WD, Berger TG, Elston DM, eds. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011.
Review Date:
9/17/2012
Reviewed By:
A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc., Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, and David. R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (5/13/2011).
