Port-wine stain on the trunk

A port-wine stain is a permanent birthmark present from birth. Color ranges from pink or light brown to deep maroon. It grows as the child grows. Most often, a port-wine stain appears on the face, but it can affect other areas. In adulthood, the involved skin may become thicker and darker.

Port-wine stains may cause medical problems and emotional stress. Early laser therapy is the usual treatment. Sometimes port-wine stains occur with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome or Sturge-Weber syndrome, which requires regular medical evaluation.