Cafe-Au-Lait

Cafe-Au-Lait-Spot

Cafe-au-lait spots are a light tan spot, the color of coffee with milk. They may be a normal type of birthmark. The presence of several cafe-au-lait spots larger than a quarter may occur in neurofibromatosis (a genetic disorder that causes abnormal cell growth of nerve tissues).

Moles are small clusters of pigmented skin cells. Nearly everyone has moles, which usually appear after birth.

Large moles present at birth (congenital nevi) are more likely to become skin cancer (malignant melanoma). This is especially true if the mole covers an area larger than the size of a fist. All congenital nevi should be examined by a health care provider, and any change in the birthmark should be reported. Watch for changes in the size or color, or sudden ulceration, bleeding, or itching in the birthmark.

A mongolian spot (also called a mongolian blue spot) is usually bluish or bruised-looking. It usually appears over the lower back or buttocks, sometimes in other areas including the trunk or arms. These spots are more commonly seen in darker-skinned populations and may persist for months or years. They do NOT become cancer or develop other symptoms.

Symptoms & Signs

Skin, abnormally dark or light

Is usually brown, black, bluish, or blue-gray

Skin lumps

Skin lesion

Discolorations, lumps, or lesions

	May be variable in size
	May contain hair
	May be smooth, flat, raised, or wrinkled

Treatments

Treatment varies depending on the type of birthmark and associated conditions. Usually no treatment is required for the birthmark itself.

Large or prominent nevi that affect the appearance and self-esteem may be covered with special cosmetics.

Moles may be removed surgically if they affect the appearance or if they have an increased cancer risk. Be sure to discuss your options with your doctor to decide how and when to remove any moles.

Where to get support

The Nevus Outreach (www.nevus.org) provides support for patients with large birthmarks.

Prognosis

Congenital nevi pose an increased cancer risk and should be examined.

Possible Complications

	Skin cancer
	Psychological effects, if the birthmark is prominent

When to contact a medical professional

All birthmarks should be examined by a health care provider to determine the prognosis (probable outcome), course of action, and possible complications.

Call for an appointment with your provider if any change occurs in color, size, or texture of a nevus or other skin lesion.

Call for an appointment with your provider if there is development of pain, inflammation, ulceration, bleeding or itching of a congenital nevus or other skin lesion, or if you have questions or concerns.

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent birthmarks. It may be advisable for a person with birthmarks to use a good quality sunscreen when outdoors (to prevent complications).