What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Angel’s Kiss
• Nevus Simplex
• Stork Bite Nevus

What is Salmon Patch? (Definition/Background Information)

• Salmon Patch is the most common form of capillary vascular malformation (CVM), which is a reddish birthmark on skin caused by the malformation of small blood vessels
• It occurs in newborn children as a flat irregular patch that is salmon (pinkish-orange) colored. Salmon Patches are frequently observed at birth, but are typically benign and may last only for about a year or so
• These benign growths may occur in any part of the body, but most are found on the neck and face. They do not present any significant symptoms or complications
• Generally, no treatment is necessary for Salmon Patches. But, if required, they are occasionally treated for cosmetic purposes using laser therapy

Who gets Salmon Patch? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Salmon Patch is usually present at birth. It reportedly occurs in 2 in 5 newborn babies
• Both males and females are affected
• It may be observed in individuals of all races and ethnic backgrounds across the world

What are the Risk Factors for Salmon Patch? (Predisposing Factors)

• The risk factors for Salmon Patch are not yet well-established

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Salmon Patch? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of development of Salmon Patch is unknown
• It occurs from malformed and dilated blood vessels under the skin
• They occur at birth and become more prominent with time i.e., as the baby gets older

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Salmon Patch?

Salmon Patches are generally asymptomatic and do not present any significant signs and symptoms. However, the following may be observed:

• Presence of an irregular patch on skin of varied size that appears like a ‘flat hemangioma’
• The skin patches or moles have poorly-defined borders and are red to pink in color (salmon-colored)
• It becomes darker in color when the baby cries or when pressure is applied on the mole
• Salmon Patches may be present in any part of the body surface including on the trunk and limbs
• They commonly occur at the back of the neck
• It can also occur in between the eyebrows in the forehead. At such a site, it is called an Angel’s Kiss

How is Salmon Patch Diagnosed?

A diagnosis for Salmon Patch includes evaluating the clinical history (physical exam) and a thorough family history. Other tools to help diagnose the skin condition may include:

• A visual assessment by the physician, which can help diagnose the condition in most cases
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• If necessary, skin biopsies may be performed to rule-out other conditions

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Salmon Patch?

No significant complication of Salmon Patch is generally reported. In some children, it may present cosmetic (appearance) issues.

How is Salmon Patch Treated?

• Salmon Patches are generally asymptomatic and do not require any treatment. Many are known to disappear completely within a year
• If necessary, the patch may be removed using pulsed dye laser therapy

How can Salmon Patch be Prevented?

Currently, there are no specific methods to prevent the formation of Salmon Patches.

What is the Prognosis of Salmon Patch? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Salmon Patches are noncancerous and generally asymptomatic
• A vast majority of them (around 95%) are known to disappear spontaneously after a period of about 12 months; while, some persist later into life too

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Salmon Patch:

Please visit our Skin Care Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/skin-disorders/