MULBERRY SPOTS Meaning and
Definition
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Mulberry spots, also known as mongolian spots or congenital dermal melanocytosis, are a type of birthmark that appears as flat, bluish-gray or bluish-black patches on the skin. These spots typically occur at birth or shortly thereafter, and they are more commonly found in individuals with darker skin tones.
The name "mulberry spots" originates from the resemblance of these marks to the juicy, dark-colored fruit. They are caused by the accumulation of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes in the deeper layers of the skin. Mulberry spots most frequently appear on the lower back and buttocks but can also be seen on other areas of the body such as the shoulders, arms, or thighs.
These birthmarks are typically harmless and require no medical treatment as they tend to fade and disappear on their own as the child grows older. However, in few cases, mulberry spots may persist into adulthood. In certain instances, the spots may be mistaken for bruises, leading to unnecessary concern. It is essential for parents, caregivers, and medical professionals to recognize mulberry spots accurately to avoid confusion.
Although mulberry spots are benign and do not cause any health problems, it is crucial to differentiate them from other skin conditions such as bruising or birth defects. If there is any doubt about the nature of the birthmark, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended to confirm the diagnosis and provide appropriate guidance.
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The abdominal eruption in typhus fever.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MULBERRY SPOTS
- mulberry spovs
- mulberry spous
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- mulberry spotr
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- mulbeerryspots
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Etymology of MULBERRY SPOTS
The term "mulberry spots" refers to small, dark-red or purple spots that appear on a person's skin due to various medical conditions. However, it does not have a specific etymology since it is a descriptive term created based on the appearance of the spots.
The word "mulberry" comes from the Middle English word "morsberie" or "morsbirie", which ultimately derives from Old English "morberie". It is believed to be a combination of the Proto-Germanic word "murþrā" (meaning dark-colored) and the Old English word "berie" (meaning a berry). The mulberry fruit itself is dark-colored, often appearing as dark red or purple, thus giving rise to the term "mulberry" spots.
