What is the medical term for a skin finding that is not a stork bite?

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From the Guidelines

The medical term for a skin finding that is not a stork bite can be classified into various categories, including capillary malformations, infantile hemangioma, or other cutaneous markers, as described in the study published in Pediatrics in 2015 1. When considering a skin finding that is not a stork bite, it is essential to examine the characteristics of the lesion, such as its color, texture, and location.

  • Capillary malformations, also referred to as nevus flammeus simplex (NFS) or salmon patch, are flat, pink or red lesions with relatively ill-defined borders, as noted in the study 1.
  • Port wine stains (PWSs) are flat, darker, red-purple lesions with well-defined borders, which tend to get darker with time, according to the study published in Pediatrics 1.
  • Infantile hemangiomas are bright red vascular growths that may be associated with underlying dysraphic malformations, as discussed in the study 1. It is crucial to distinguish between these various skin findings, as some may be associated with underlying conditions, such as dysraphic malformations, while others may be benign.
  • The study published in Pediatrics in 2015 1 provides a classification system for cutaneous markers, including high-risk, intermediate-risk, and low-risk lesions, which can help guide diagnosis and treatment. By understanding the specific characteristics and classification of a skin finding, clinicians can provide accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment plans, ultimately improving patient outcomes in terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.

From the Research

Skin Findings

The medical term for a skin finding that is not a stork bite is Nevus Simplex, however this is also known as a "salmon patch" or "stork bite" 2.

  • A stork bite is a common birthmark that appears as a pink or red mark on the skin, usually on the face, neck, or back of the head.
  • Other types of skin findings that are not stork bites include congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN), which are pigmented skin lesions present at birth 3, 4, 5, 6.

Congenital Melanocytic Nevi (CMN)

  • CMN are benign nevomelanocytic neoplasms that may be precursors of melanoma, regardless of their size 4.
  • They can be cosmetically disfiguring and are at risk for malignant transformation 3.
  • CMN may be treated with various modalities, including surgical excision, laser treatment, and other methods 3, 4.

Nevus Simplex vs Stork Bite

  • Nevus simplex is also known as a salmon patch or stork bite, which can be confusing as the terms are often used interchangeably 2.
  • However, it is essential to note that not all skin findings are stork bites, and other conditions like CMN have distinct characteristics and implications 3, 4, 5, 6.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

What Is Nevus Simplex?

Pediatric dermatology, 2024

Research

Precursors to melanoma and their mimics: nevi of special sites.

Modern pathology : an official journal of the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology, Inc, 2006

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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