MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Stork bite

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Stork bite

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative Names Definition Causes Symptoms Exams and Tests	Treatment Outlook (Prognosis) Possible Complications When to Contact a Medical Professional Prevention References

Illustrations

Stork bite

Neonate

Alternative Names Return to top

Salmon patch; Nevus simplex

Definition Return to top

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 Return to top

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 room temperature changes. It may fade when you push on it.

Symptoms Return to top

A stork bite usually looks pink and flat. A baby may be born with a stork bite, or the birthmark may 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 Return to top

A doctor can diagnose a stork bite simply by looking at. No tests are needed.

Treatment Return to top

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) Return to top

Most stork bites on the face eventually go away completely in about 18 months. Stork bites on the back of the neck usually do not go away.

Possible Complications Return to top

There are usually no complications.

When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top

All birthmarks should be examined by the health care provider during a routine well-baby examination.

Prevention Return to top

There is no known prevention.

References Return to top

Behrman RE. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 17th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004.

Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004.

Update Date: 4/12/2007

Updated by: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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