How to Treat an Infant's Mongolian Spot

Mongolian spots are bluish-black, flat birthmarks in irregular shapes that occur mostly in infants of Indian, African and Latino heritage. Mongolian spots can be seen on various parts of the body of newborns. Sometimes infants are born with Mongolian spots, or the spots appear shortly after birth.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Note that Mongolian spots usually fade within a few years and are typically gone by puberty. Occasionally, they remain into adulthood, but there is no need for treatment to make them fade or disappear.

2. Recognize Mongolian birthmark spots on infants as flat dark brown, dark gray or blue-black spots. They commonly appear on an infant's buttocks, lower back, shoulders, legs and sides. They can range from very small spots to large areas of deep, dark areas of skin.

3. Realize that Mongolian spots are benign markings and carry no complications or risk factors. They are birthmarks and are not associated with any disease or illness.

4. Be aware that Mongolian spots are easily mistaken for bruises and may trigger child abuse accusations. Make sure the child's pediatrician documents the Mongolian spots and includes detailed information in the child's health records.

5. Understand that Mongolian spots are non-cancerous. They do not require treatment, and they cannot be prevented. They are not related to bruises or any additional medical problems. Further complications from Mongolian spots do not appear later in life.