My Baby Has a Vascular Malformation (Port-Wine Stain or Deeper)

My Baby's Vascular Tumor Is Causing Blood Clotting Problems (Kasabach-Merritt)

Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon (KMP) is a rare but serious complication where certain vascular tumors (kaposiform hemangioendothelioma or tufted angioma — not common infantile hemangiomas) trap platelets and clotting factors, leading to dangerously low platelet counts and a bleeding disorder. KMP is a medical emergency that requires hospitalization and specialized treatment. Despite being frightening, modern treatment with sirolimus and other medications has significantly improved outcomes. Most children respond well to treatment, though the vascular tumor may not fully resolve.

My Baby Has a Waxy Yellowish Patch on Their Scalp (Nevus Sebaceous)

A nevus sebaceous (also called nevus sebaceous of Jadassohn) is a benign birthmark that typically appears on the scalp as a flat or slightly raised, yellowish-orange, waxy or velvety patch where hair does not grow. It is present at birth and occurs in about 0.3% of newborns. During childhood, it remains relatively flat and inconspicuous. At puberty, it becomes thicker and more noticeable due to hormonal stimulation. There is a small risk (historically overstated) of developing benign or rarely malignant tumors within the nevus later in life, so monitoring and potential removal are discussed with your dermatologist.

My Baby Has a Streaky or Velvety Raised Birthmark (Epidermal Nevus)

An epidermal nevus is a benign (non-cancerous) overgrowth of skin cells that is present at birth or appears in early childhood. It typically looks like a slightly raised, skin-colored to brownish, velvety or wart-like patch that often follows a linear or streaky pattern along the body's natural skin lines (Blaschko lines). Epidermal nevi are usually isolated and purely cosmetic. However, when they are large or extensive, they can sometimes be associated with abnormalities in other organ systems (epidermal nevus syndrome), so a thorough evaluation is recommended for larger lesions.

My Baby Has an Extra Nipple (Accessory Nipple)

Accessory (supernumerary) nipples are one of the most common minor congenital findings, occurring in about 1 in 18 people. They appear as small, flat, often pigmented bumps along the "milk line" — an embryonic line running from the armpit to the groin on each side. Most people mistake them for moles. Accessory nipples are almost always harmless and require no treatment. In rare cases, they may be associated with kidney abnormalities, so some pediatricians recommend a renal ultrasound if one is found, though this practice varies.

My Baby Was Born with a Raw Spot on Their Scalp (Aplasia Cutis)

Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) is a condition where a baby is born with a small area of missing skin, most commonly on the scalp. It occurs in about 1 in 10,000 births. The affected area may look like a raw wound, an ulcer, or may have already healed into a thin, shiny scar by the time of birth. Most cases are small, isolated, and heal well with basic wound care — the area eventually forms a hairless scar. Larger defects or those associated with other findings may need more investigation, but isolated small ACC has an excellent prognosis.

New Treatments for Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) in Children

Treatment for atopic dermatitis in children has advanced significantly in recent years. While moisturizers and topical steroids remain first-line treatments, newer options include non-steroidal topical medications (like crisaborole), biologic therapies (like dupilumab, approved for children 6 months and older), and JAK inhibitors. Most children's eczema is well-managed with basic skin care and mild topical treatments, but these newer options provide hope for moderate-to-severe cases.