Mongolian blue spots

Alternative names:

mongolian spots

Definition:

Flat bluish to bluish gray skin markings commonly appearing at birth or shortly thereafter.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Mongolian blue spots are common among darker skinned races such as Asian, East Indian, and African. They are flat, pigmented lesions with nebulous borders and irregular shape. They appear commonly at the base of the spine, on the buttocks and back and also can appear as high as the shoulders and elsewhere. Mongolian spots are benign skin markings and are not associated with any conditions or illnesses.

Occasionally, Mongolian blue spots are mistaken for bruises and questions about child abuse arise. It is important to recognize that Mongolian blue spots are birthmarks, NOT bruises.