Stork bite
Definition
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.
Alternative Names
Salmon patch; Nevus simplexCauses
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.
References
Behrman RE. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 17th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004.
Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004.
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