Diagnosis on Birthmarks and When to Seek Medical Advice
While most birthmarks are harmless and require no treatment, it’s important to understand when to seek medical evaluation, particularly if a mark changes in appearance or location. Read more about the diagnosis on birthmarks and when to seek medical advice below.
How birthmarks are diagnosed:
- Physical examination
- A GP, paediatrician, or dermatologist can usually diagnose birthmarks by examining their size, shape, colour, and texture.
- Medical history
- Family history, age of onset, changes over time, and any associated symptoms are taken into account.
- Dermatoscopy
- A special magnifying tool used by dermatologists to examine moles or pigmented marks more closely.
- Imaging tests
- In some cases, ultrasound or MRI may be ordered to assess deeper tissue involvement, especially with large vascular birthmarks or those near the spine or brain.
- Biopsy
- Rarely needed unless malignancy is suspected or diagnosis is unclear.
When to seek medical advice:
- Rapid changes in colour, size, or shape
- Birthmarks that bleed, ooze, itch, or hurt
- Moles with irregular borders or uneven colour
- Vascular birthmarks near the eyes, mouth, or airway
- Large birthmarks that interfere with movement or organ function
- Multiple café-au-lait spots, which could signal a genetic disorder
- Emotional distress or self-consciousness, especially in older children or teens
Diagnosis on Birthmarks and When to Seek Medical Advice
In South Africa, many people rely on public clinics or traditional beliefs to interpret skin markings. This can sometimes delay early intervention or screening. It’s important for parents and caregivers to understand that most birthmarks are medical, not mystical, and early evaluation can offer reassurance or appropriate treatment.
👉 [Next: Treatment Options for Birthmarks]
