The word "strawberry mark" is spelled /ˈstrɔːbəri ˌmɑːrk/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "straw," is pronounced like the word "draw" with an "s" at the beginning, while the second syllable, "berry," is pronounced like the word "very." The final syllable, "mark," is pronounced like the word "ark" with an "m" at the beginning. This mark refers to a birthmark that resembles a strawberry in color and texture, often found on infants at birth.
A strawberry mark, also known as a strawberry nevus or infantile hemangioma, is a type of birthmark that commonly appears in newborns. It is characterized by a reddish or purplish raised area on the skin, resembling the appearance of a strawberry.
Strawberry marks are typically benign and harmless, gradually appearing within the first few weeks after birth. They are caused by an excessive growth of blood vessels, resulting in a localized accumulation of blood under the skin. These birthmarks can vary in size, ranging from small dots to larger patches. Additionally, the texture may differ, with some being smooth and others having a rough or bumpy surface.
Most strawberry marks tend to grow rapidly during the first few months of the baby's life and can reach their peak size at around six months. Afterwards, they typically start to shrink and fade away over time. While many strawberry marks resolve on their own without treatment, some cases may require medical intervention if they affect vital areas such as the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Although strawberry marks may cause concern for parents due to their prominent appearance, they are generally harmless and do not cause any health issues. However, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and to monitor the progress of the mark.
The term "strawberry mark" is a descriptive name given to a type of birthmark known as a hemangioma. Its etymology originates from a supposed resemblance of the bright red color and texture of the birthmark to the appearance of a strawberry. The word "strawberry" itself dates back to Middle English from the Old English word "streawberige", which combines "streaw" (meaning straw) with "berige" (meaning berry). The word "mark" in this context simply refers to a visible spot or blemish on the skin. Therefore, the combination of the words forms "strawberry mark", describing the distinctive characteristics of this particular birthmark.