Birthmarks Tests & Birthmarks Treatments at University of Colorado Hospital

Tests for Birthmarks

Your doctor will usually identify birthmarks during a physical examination. Your doctor may also take photos of the birthmark at various times to see if it is growing.

Some birthmarks are on internal organs. These are diagnosed with pictures taken by magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound.

Birthmark Treatments

Birthmarks may fade or disappear with time. Sometimes they can be hidden by hair or clothing. If they cause embarrassment or discomfort, they can be treated. Your doctor will help you to decide if treatment is needed.

Anti-inflammatory drugs

Anti-inflammatory drugs called corticosteroids, taken by mouth or injection or applied to the skin. These are usually to stop raised birthmarks, called hemangiomas, from growing.

Laser surgery

Laser surgery to remove birthmarks that are close to the skin. Laser surgery is often used on port wine stains, which are red birthmarks that get darker with age.

Surgery

Surgery to remove hemangiomas on internal organs