Port-wine stain
Port-wine stain
Port-wine stain (pronunciation: pɔːrt waɪn steɪn) is a type of birthmark that appears at birth or in the first or second week of life. It looks like a spattering of paint, hence the name.
Etymology
The term "port-wine" is derived from the color of Port wine, a Portuguese fortified wine. The term "stain" is used because the birthmark can look like a paint or wine stain.
Description
A port-wine stain is a capillary malformation present at birth, characterized by vascular abnormalities that result in a persistent red to purplish discoloration of the skin. Port-wine stains persist throughout life. The area of skin affected grows in proportion to general growth.
Causes
Port-wine stains occur when an area of skin does not get enough nerve fibers. Skin areas without enough nerve fibers do not constrict the blood vessels in the skin. This causes the small blood vessels (capillaries) to constantly dilate and this increased blood flow shows through the skin, causing a stain.
Treatment
Treatment options for port-wine stains include laser therapy. The pulsed dye laser is considered the treatment of choice for port-wine stains. Other treatments include freezing, surgery, radiation, and tattooing.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Port-wine stain
- Wikipedia's article - Port-wine stain
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