Our daughter Chris (17-9-'96) has a V-shaped red mark on her forehead. Probably expanded veins. Her grandmother called this a "Stork's bite" (Ooievaarsbeet in Dutch) and added that Chris's uncle has the same. It disappears in due time, but reappears when angry or exhausted. Our GP said: nothing to worry about, but could not tell what caused it, if it's hereditary. I would like to know more.
Dear Henk,
Babies are born with an array of different types of markings most of which go under the heading of "birthmark." The stork bite, also called a salmon patch, is a very common birthmark found on babies. In fact, it occurs in 30-40% of all newborns and appears as a flat, dull pink spot over the bridge of the nose, eyelids, or the back of the neck. When this patch is found on the back of the neck, it is often called a stork bite. Those found on the nose or eyelids are sometimes referred to as "angel kisses."
They are made up of distended small blood vessels called capillaries. Almost all of these birthmarks found on the eyelids and nose completely clear by 1-2 years of age. Most of those found on the neck also clear by this time, however, up to 25% may continue into adult life. Although, the neck patches that persist are usually covered by hair, so they go unnoticed for the most part.
Henk, stork bite birthmarks are completely benign and do not pose any cancer risk. They are made up of special blood vessels used by the baby when she was in the womb, and the fact that some babies continue to have these after birth does not appear to be hereditary. Your observation of the birthmark reappearing when she is upset is quite typical. It is very common for them to get more red during episodes of crying or physical exertion.
I hope this helps.
