Port-wine stain

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Port-wine stain
Synonyms	Nevus flammeus
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Dermatology
Symptoms	Red to purple discoloration of the skin
Complications	Psychosocial issues, glaucoma, seizures
Onset	Present at birth
Duration	Lifelong
Types	N/A
Causes	Capillary malformation
Risks
Diagnosis	Physical examination
Differential diagnosis	Hemangioma, Sturge-Weber syndrome
Prevention	None
Treatment	Laser therapy
Medication
Prognosis	Generally good, but may cause psychosocial issues
Frequency	3-5 per 1,000 newborns
Deaths	N/A

Port-wine stain on Mikhail Gorbachev's forehead

Port-wine stain on Thomas Handasyd Perkins

Port-wine stain (also known as nevus flammeus) is a vascular anomaly present at birth, characterized by a pink to purple mark on the skin, which can vary in size. The name "port-wine" is derived from the color of Port wine, which the stain often resembles.

Causes

Port-wine stains are caused by an abnormal development of blood vessels (vascular malformation) in the skin. The exact cause of this abnormal development is not known, but it is believed to be caused by a genetic mutation. Port-wine stains are not caused by trauma, injury, or any other known environmental factors.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of a port-wine stain is a visible mark on the skin, usually pink to purple in color. The mark can vary in size, and can be located anywhere on the body, but is most commonly found on the face. The skin under and around the port-wine stain may be thicker than normal, and may have a pebbly appearance.

Treatment

Treatment for port-wine stains includes laser therapy, which can lighten the color of the stain and make it less noticeable. Other treatments may include dermabrasion, chemical peel, and surgery. However, these treatments are not always successful and may have side effects.

Prognosis

Port-wine stains are permanent and may become darker and thicker with age. However, they are not life-threatening and do not cause any physical health problems. Some people with port-wine stains may experience psychological distress due to the appearance of the stain.

See also

• Birthmark
• Hemangioma
• Sturge-Weber syndrome

References

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