Hemangiomas (Strawberry Marks)

Hemangiomas are bright red birthmarks and are often called strawberry marks. As many as five percent of all babies will be born with hemangiomas, and these marks are more common in girls, preemies and twins. Hemangiomas may be diagnosed as superficial, deep or compound, with superficial hemangiomas appearing as red raised marks on the skin and deep hemangiomas appearing as a nodule that has a bluish hue. Strawberry marks most commonly occur on the head and neck, but can be anywhere on the body. Hemangiomas are not typically visible at birth and may develop in the days or weeks thereafter. If a mark develops and you suspect it may interfere with your child’s ability to see, breathe or eat, please consult a physician. While hemangiomas may self-resolve as a child grows (usually by the age of nine or 10), they could leave a permanent scar, so treatment may be recommended.