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Port-Wine Stain (Nevus Flammeus)

This patient information and photograph on Port-Wine Stains (Nevus Flammeus) is provided by John L. Meisenheimer, M.D. a board certified Dermatologist and skin care specialist based in Orlando, Florida.  This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician.

What is it?    A Port-Wine Stain known by the medical community as Nevus Flammeus is a vascular birthmark of the skin.  It is a reddish to purple patch that can occur anywhere on the skin but is most commonly seen on the face.  Port-Wine Stains are typically found on only one side of the body.   It is usually present at birth and typically does not grow faster than the child. 

What causes it?    Port-Wine Stains are caused by dilated capillaries (small blood vessels) found in the upper skin.  The red color is due to the blood flow through all the capillaries. 

Is it dangerous?    Port-Wine Stains are  harmless birthmarks. They are not related to cancer and they do not involve internal organs.  Rarely they can be seen in association with some genetic syndromes.

Can it be cured?     Port Wine Stains rarely resolve on their own.  Current treatment centers around the use of vascular lasers and improvement can be dramatic in some individuals.

Will it spread?    Port-Wine Stains typically do not expand with time, but they may become darker (more purple) in color in older adults and nodules may form.

Is it contagious?    Port-Wine Stains are not contagious and you can not "catch it" from anyone.

© John L. Meisenheimer, M.D.  2004                                   WWW.OrlandoSkinDoc.com

Last modified: 08/27/06