Congenital Blue Nevus and Congenital Nevus Birthmark: Congenital Blue Nevus or Mongolian spots. A congenital blue nevus is a blue birthmark present at birth. It may be light to dark blue in appearance and is usually flat to slightly raised.
Treatment: Usually no treatment is needed. It usually remains unchanged throughout life. Sometimes nevi will fade as the person ages. In rare circumstances, nevi may become cancerous and need to be removed.
Congenital nevi are common birthmarks. The size of the nevus may vary from a small one-inch mark to a giant birthmark covering half of the body or more. Nevi vary greatly in size, shape, texture, and hairiness. The color can vary from light brown to nearly black. Some have fine downy hair; many have long, thick, darker, coarser or curlier hair. A child may have one giant nevus and many small nevi or only small-scattered nevi.
Causes: There is no known cause, and therefore no way to prevent these birthmarks.
Possible complications: There is risk of skin cancer developing in the nevus. The risk is higher during the time when the body is maturing.
Treatment: Treatment of nevi depends on size, location, estimated risk for skin cancer, and expected benefit in appearance. It is important to look closely at congenital moles on a regular basis. Photographs of the nevus at regular intervals can help the caregiver note changes. Signs of early change to skin cancer include the development of irregular borders, changes in color and a change in the surface of the mole. When changes are noted consult with a doctor is important. Babies with giant congenital moles have an increased risk of developing skin cancers. Many of these skin cancers will occur during the first ten years of life.
Love Without Boundaries[1]
Links for this Special Need:
http://www.adoptspecialneeds.org/special-needs/skin-conditions/#javelin_faq100_132
http://www.rainbowkids.com/special-needs/skin-conditions/congenital-blue-nevus
http://www.rainbowkids.com/special-needs/skin-conditions/congenital-nevi
Stories or Blogs from Families who have Parented a Child with Nevus:
http://www.adoptspecialneeds.org/family-stories/m.blog/258/alai-s-story-congenital-nevus-birthmark
http://www.nohandsbutours.com/2010/01/19/a-special-need-defined-giant-congenital-nevus/
http://www.nohandsbutours.com/2013/11/20/special-need-highlight-focus-on-congenital-nevus/
[1] Love Without Boundaries – http://www.adoptspecialneeds.org/
