Intermediate
Technical
IVT
Mongolian spots
Benign blue-gray birthmarks commonly found on the sacrum and buttocks of newborns, particularly in Asian and Hispanic populations.
Full Definition
Mongolian spots are congenital dermal melanocytosis appearing as blue-gray patches typically located on the lower back, buttocks, or shoulders. They are most common in infants of Asian, Hispanic, African, or Native American descent and usually fade by school age. The term 'Mongolian spots' is considered outdated by some medical professionals who prefer 'congenital dermal melanocytosis' to avoid ethnic references.
Usage
Usage note: Some style guides recommend using 'congenital dermal melanocytosis' instead of 'Mongolian spots' to avoid ethnic terminology.
In Context
- "The pediatric dermatology report noted extensive Mongolian spots across the infant's lower back that should not be mistaken for trauma." — Clinical documentation
- "Parents were reassured that the Mongolian spots would likely fade significantly by the child's fifth birthday." — Patient education materials
Also known as
congenital blue nevus
dermal melanocytosis
Don't confuse with
bruising
child abuse marks
café-au-lait macules