Congenital Dermal Melanocytosis (Mongolian Spots), Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention, Complications

Congenital Dermal Melanocytosis (Mongolian Spots), Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention, Complications

Mongolian Spots or Congenital dermal melanocytosis is a blue patch on the skin of a newborn. Congenital dermal melanocytosis usually appears on the buttocks, back, hands, or feet. Mongolian spots are more common in dark-skinned babies. The cause of the appearance of these birthmarks has not been determined, but they are generally not related to certain health conditions and are not dangerous. Mongolian spots usually disappear with age.

Symptoms of Mongolian Spots

The main symptom of Mongolian spots is the appearance of blue or bluish-gray patches without any changes in skin texture on the child's buttocks, lower back, or waist. These spots are similar to regular bluish bruises, but the difference is that the Mongolian spots don't go away for a few days after they appear.

Mongolian spots are usually about 2-8 cm in diameter with regular shapes and fuzzy and uneven edges. However, sometimes Mongolian spots can appear in large sizes. In certain cases, these patches can appear on other parts of the body, for example on the legs or on the face.

Many people mistake the Mongolian spot for a sign of child abuse that causes bruising. The appearance of these patches in babies also often causes parents to worry.

When to go to the doctor

Mongolian spots that appear on the baby will be immediately recognized by the doctor during a physical examination of the baby after birth. The doctor will tell parents about the spot in detail, including the difference between a Mongolian spot and a regular bruise.

Mongolian spots are not dangerous for babies, but parents should pay close attention to their development. Take your child to the doctor immediately if the Mongolian spot is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Spots that appear visible
• New spots appear after a few months after
• The spots that appear are not blue or gray

Also, consult your doctor if you are worried that the spots that appear are getting wider, especially if they are accompanied by other complaints.

Causes of Mongolian Spots

Mongolian spotting occurs when melanocytes, the melanin-producing cells that give skin its color, become trapped in the deep layer of skin (dermis) while the fetus is developing in the womb. This condition causes these cells can not reach the outer layer of skin (epidermis), causing patches under the skin.

Until now, it is not known with certainty the cause of the trapping of these melanocytes. However, this condition is more common in babies who have dark skin tones, including Asian or African races.

Mongolian Spots Diagnosis

To diagnose Mongolian spots, the doctor will ask questions or take a history about the complaints and symptoms that arise. Followed by a physical examination. The doctor will check the color, size, and location of the spots. In addition, the doctor will also perform a thorough examination of the baby's body.

Generally, Mongolian spotting can be diagnosed through a physical examination, so there is no need for additional tests. For extensive Mongolian patches, examination of the skin tissue and X-ray scans are needed to rule out a tumor in the meninges covering the spinal cord.

Mongolian Spot Treatment

Mongolian spots are not a sign of disease or disorder. Therefore, it does not need to be treated.

Generally, Mongolian spots will go away on their own as the child grows up. However, consult a doctor immediately if the spot changes color, shape, or texture.

If the presence of these patches looks bothersome, for example on the face, the doctor may suggest laser therapy.

Mongolian Spotting Complications

Mongolian spots may have a psychological impact on the sufferer. This psychological impact is especially experienced by sufferers if the Mongolian spots are in places that are clearly visible or do not go away after childhood.

Just as the cause is unknown, the way to prevent the appearance of Mongolian spots on babies is also unknown.

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