Mongolian Blue Spots Information

Mongolian Spots

Mongolian blue spots, also called mongolian spots, congenital dermal melanocytosis, and dermal melanocytosis, are a fascinating and often misunderstood phenomenon in the world of dermatology. These blue-grey birthmarks are commonly found on the lower back and buttocks of infants and young children. Despite their harmless nature, they continue to intrigue medical professionals and laypeople alike, offering a glimpse into the complex interconnections between genetics, culture, and human biology. Here, our dermatologists in Gainesville discuss everything you need to know about these birthmarks and when to consult your dermatology provider.

Our dermatology team at Gainesville Dermatology & Skin Surgery offers comprehensive treatments for a variety of skin conditions, using the latest techniques and state-of-the-art technology for the health and benefit of our patients. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our dermatologists and to learn more about our services.

What Are Mongolian Spots?

Mongolian spots, also referred to as slate gray nevus and congenital dermal melanocytosis, are benign (non-cancerous) pigmented skin marks that appear as blue-grey or bluish-black patches on the skin. Mongolian spots are typically found on the skin covering the lower back and buttocks of infants and young children, although they can also appear on other parts of the body as well. These birthmarks are caused by an accumulation of melanocytes, which are pigment-producing cells located in the deeper layers of the skin that give the skin its color. Mongolian spots are most commonly found in individuals with East Asian, African, Hispanic, or Native American ancestry, although they can occur in people of any ethnicity.

They are often present at birth, though they may develop within the first few weeks of life. These spots generally fade away on their own by the time the child reaches adolescence. Mongolian spots are entirely harmless and do not require treatment. They are not cancerous and are not signs of disease. Due to the presentation of blue Mongolian spots, these pigmented lesions can sometimes be mistaken for bruises, leading to unnecessary concern or even suspicion of child abuse. As such, it is critical for parents and healthcare providers to be aware of their existence and characteristics.

What Do Mongolian Spots Look Like?

Due to its appearance and presentation, a Mongolian spot can be mistaken for a bruise. However, unlike bruises, Mongolian spots don't dissipate in a number of days. It's important to understand the common characteristics of Mongolian spots and other lesions that share their general appearance and characteristics. Marks that are raised, are not bluish in color, and appear later in life, such as during adolescence or adulthood are not likely to be Mongolian spots. Mongolian spots have the following characteristics. If you are unsure whether a lesion on your child is a Mongolian blue spot, consult your dermatologist.

Lesions flat against the skin
Normal skin texture
Blue-gray or blue in color
An irregular shape with poorly defined edges

Typically present at birth or soon after
Located on the lower back, buttocks, lower arms, or trunk
A width of approximately 2—8 centimeters

What Causes Mongolian Spots?

Mongolian spots are a type of birthmark. Birthmarks are skin markings that develop at birth or shortly after birth. If a lesion develops on your skin in adulthood, it is not considered a birthmark. Mongolian spots are seen at or near the time of birth. Mongolian spots are caused by an accumulation of melanocytes, or cells that produce the pigment melanin responsible for the color of the skin, hair, and eyes.

In those with Mongolian spots, their melanocytes are densely packed in certain areas of the skin, which results in the development of bluish-gray or blue-colored patches. The precise reason why some individuals develop Mongolian spots is unknown, yet it is thought to be related to certain genetic factors.

Risk Factors For Mongolian Spots

The exact causes of Mongolian blue spots are not known. As are the risk factors contributing to the development of Mongolian spots. However, it is known that melanin plays a role in all forms of discoloration on the skin. Individuals with darker skin tones have a higher likelihood of having Mongolian spots, as well as those with East Asian, African, Hispanic, or Native American ancestry. These birthmarks may be more prevalent in babies who are born prematurely or with a low birth weight. This may be related to the delayed dispersal of melanocytes to the skin as the fetus is developing. Mongolian spots are not caused by any external factors, like trauma, disease, or infection, and their presence has no risk of harm.

Are Mongolian Spots Dangerous?

No. Mongolian spots are not dangerous. These bluish lesions are non-cancerous birthmarks that are entirely harmless and do not pose any health risks to those with them. Mongolian spots are a normal variation in the pigmentation of the skin and are not associated with any medical conditions or complications. Mongolian spots share apparent characteristics with bruises, and, because of that, it's important to distinguish between them, as their confusion may result in unnecessary concern or suspicion of abuse. Understanding the differences between Mongolian spots and bruises can help avoid such misunderstandings.

Do Mongolian Spots Go Away?

Typically, yes. Usually, Mongolian spots go away on their own over time. In these cases, no treatment is necessary. In rare cases, however, Mongolian spots persist into adulthood. Mongolian spots in adults can pose a cosmetic concern, and in these cases, individuals may seek treatment in order to remove these pigmented lesions. While Mongolian spots do not pose any threat to health, their possible complications are psychological and emotional in nature.

This is especially common for individuals with blue spots in highly visible areas of their body and those who endure longer than childhood, persisting into adulthood. Our dermatologists understand the consequences these pigmented lesions can have on our patients. Contact Gainesville Dermatology & Skin Surgery to learn about your options for treatment.

How Are Mongolian Blue Spots Diagnosed?

Mongolian blue spots are a type of birthmark appearing as blue or gray patches on the skin, most commonly on the buttocks and lower back of infants, though they may remain into adulthood. These birthmarks are typically harmless and do not require any medical treatment. Mongolian blue spots can usually be diagnosed by your dermatologist based on the appearance of the birthmarks alone.

However, if there is any doubt about the diagnosis, your provider may perform a skin biopsy to confirm that the spot is indeed a Mongolian blue spot and not a different type of skin lesion. In rare cases, a biopsy may also be performed if the spot is especially large or has an unusual appearance in order to rule out the possibility of skin cancer.

How Do You Treat Mongolian Blue Spots?

Soon after a baby is delivered, a doctor will examine the baby's skin for any marks and document them in the baby's medical records. Parents, caretakers, and healthcare providers of the baby can observe the spots on a regular basis in order to determine whether they are fading on their own as the child grows older. Most Mongolian spots fade over time, yet some may remain on the skin well into adulthood, showing no signs of disappearing. Unless a person's slate gray nevi occur in combination with another health condition, these spots typically don't require special care.

Yet, if the Mongolian spots persist into adulthood, and the person finds them distressing or bothersome, Mongolian spot removal may be a beneficial option for treatment. Mongolian spots treatment typically consists of laser treatments used to reduce the visibility and to improve the appearance of the affected skin. Patients with Mongolian spots in highly visible areas of their body often seek dermatology therapies to reduce the appearance of their pigmented birthmarks. For more information about our available treatments and to learn more about how you can benefit from them, contact Gainesville Dermatology & Skin Surgery.