Can red birthmarks be cancerous?

Can red birthmarks be cancerous?

Different types of birthmarks are made up of different types of cells. Most birthmarks, such as the common port wine stains and strawberry marks, carry no risk of developing into a cancer. But a very rare type, called a giant congenital melanocytic naevus, can develop into a melanoma if it is larger than 20cm.

What happens if you have a red birthmark?

Most birthmarks need no treatment. They usually remain stable as a child grows older. However, some areas that can resemble blood vessel tumors — called hemangiomas — may need treatment because of their location. For example, a raised hemangioma near a child’s eye may interfere with their ability to see.

Why is my birthmark inflamed?

An inflamed mole (nevus) can become more red in appearance and begin to swell, making it look like it has grown. This tends to occur from irritation when healthy moles are rubbed or injured, such as with habits like shaving.

Can a birthmark get infected?

When a mole is present from birth, it’s often called a birthmark. A mole can become infected from scratching or some other irritation. An infection can also be caused by the presence of a foreign organism, such as a fungus, or virus.

What is a red raised birthmark called?

A strawberry hemangioma is a clump of tiny blood vessels that forms under the skin. It causes a raised red skin growth that may be present at birth or develop during infancy. A hemangioma looks like a strawberry birthmark, but it’s actually a benign (noncancerous) tumor. You may also hear the term vascular birthmark.

Can birthmarks be red?

Red birthmarks are made up of blood vessels close to the skin surface. These are called vascular birthmarks. Pigmented birthmarks are areas in which the color of the birthmark is different from the color of the rest of the skin.

Do hemangiomas itch?

Epithelioid hemangioma usually forms on or in the skin, especially the skin of the head, but can occur in other areas of the body, such as in bone. On the skin, it may appear as firm pink to red bumps that may be itchy or painful.