Congenital melanocytic nevi often have variations in color and must be checked carefully for change. This image displays a congenital nevus with a black area, which should be evaluated by a dermatologist due to the possibility of melanoma. A congenital nevus on the sole or palm often has a flat appearance and may be brown to almost black in color. Moles (nevi) present at birth, made up of nests of pigment-producing cells, are known as congenital melanocytic nevi. A congenital nevus is often quite large and dark brown, as in this child’s armpit area. Congenital melanocytic nevi often have hairs present. This image displays a close-up of a small congenital melanocytic nevus. Congenital nevi can have raised areas, as seen here. A congenital nevus is found in about 2% of newborns and is usually a raised, brown spot, as seen here on the nose. A congenital melanocytic nevus (birthmark) usually has sharply defined edges and an even brown color. This image displays a close-up of a congenital nevus that is uniformly black. This image displays color and darker pigment typical of a congenital melanocytic nevus. Congenital melanocytic nevi are present at birth.
Share |

Birthmark (Congenital Melanocytic Nevus)  A parent's guide for infants and babies

Picture of Birthmark (Congenital Melanocytic Nevus): Congenital melanocytic nevi often have variations in color and must be checked carefully for change. Divider line
Congenital melanocytic nevi often have variations in color and must be checked carefully for change.
left arrow
right arrow
Overview
A birthmark (congenital melanocytic nevus, CMN) is a mole that is present at birth or shortly thereafter. A congenital melanocytic nevus is one common type of birthmark, caused by a cluster of color (pigment) cells in the skin and sometimes in deeper tissues.

All birthmarks have a 2–5% lifetime risk of turning into a cancerous (malignant) mole, which is called melanoma. This risk is higher in children who have a giant (larger than 20 cm, or about 8 inches) congenital melanocytic nevus.

Large moles on the head or spine may rarely have associated nervous system problems.
Who's At Risk
Most babies are born without moles but will gradually acquire them with age and sun exposure. Congenital, meaning "born with," moles are seen in about 1–2% of births. There is no racial or gender difference in occurrence.
Signs and Symptoms
Congenital melanocytic nevi are brown or black, usually raised spots or patches, that are present at birth or shortly after (before 1 year). They are usually single but can be multiple and range in size greater than 1 cm to less than 20 cm (bathing suit or garment lesions cover large sections of the body). Smaller, so-called, satellite lesions are sometimes associated with large lesions.

The most common locations for these birthmarks are the buttocks, thighs, and trunk, but lesions may occur on the face and extremities, and, least commonly, on the palms, soles, and scalp.

Changes in thickness, color, and hair content occur through childhood and adolescence. In later adult years, they may actually fade in color to a lighter brown.
Self-Care Guidelines
No activity or other restrictions are needed. However, use sun protection clothing (and sunblock after age 1) and make-up coverage, if desired for cosmetic reasons.
When to Seek Medical Care
Any baby with a birthmark should have it checked by at least one doctor. If the doctor recommends only observation, watch it lifelong for any change in size (other than slow growth with the child), shape, or color and for any change in the surface (flat areas that become more raised).
Treatments Your Physician May Prescribe
A skin biopsy may be done if there is suspicion of malignant change to the birthmark.

Small- to medium-size congenital melanocytic nevi (less than 20 cm, or about 8 inches) are often watched rather than removed surgically. In addition to observing the mole for any changes, photographs may be taken to document and follow potential changes in the mole.

Consultation and management by a dermatologist with further consultation to the plastic surgeon may be necessary. Removal may be desired for cosmetic reasons.

Ideally, giant congenital melanocytic nevi (greater than 20 cm) are removed surgically to reduce the risk of malignant change, although this is not always possible. If the moles are numerous or involve the head or spine, consultation with a neurologist may be suggested.



References

Bolognia, Jean L., ed. Dermatology, pp.1782-1785. New York: Mosby, 2003.

Freedberg, Irwin M., ed. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine. 6th ed. pp.884-893. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2003.
Last Updated: 22 Dec 2008