A birthmark is a blemish on the skin formed before birth. They are part of the group of skin lesions known as naevi. The cause of birthmarks is unknown, but may include cellular damage due to radiation or chemicals. Some types seem to run in families.
In Italian and Middle Eastern cultures they're called voglie in Italian or wiham in Arabic, both of which translate to "wishes," because according to folklore, they are caused by unsatisfied wishes of the mother during pregnancy. For example, if a pregnant woman does not satisfy a sudden wish or craving for strawberries, it's said that the infant might bear a strawberry mark.

AR Children's Hospital Birthmarks Homepage - This site has detailed information on birthmarks, particularly on hemangiomas.
Meta Description: [ At Arkansas Childrens Hospital, a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary Vascular Anomalies Center has been developed to diagnose and treat children and adults with congenital vascular anomalies. This program has become recognized as a leading facility and serves patients from all over the United St... ]
Birthmarks and Hemangiomas InterNETwork Support - Support, resources, and information on medical treatment of birthmarks and hemangiomas.
Birthmarks.com - This site offers information and helpful sites related to various port-wine stain and other birthmarks, including contact information for physicians in this field.
International Society For The Vascular Anomalies - The official site of the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies.
Mongolian Spots - DrGreene.com - Read an article that describes spots on the skin that are sometimes mistaken for bruises.
Meta Description: [ Read an article that describes spots on the skin that are sometimes mistaken for bruises. ]
Vascular Birthmarks Foundation - An international charitable organization that provides support and informational resources for individuals affected by hemangiomas, port wine stains and other vascular birthmarks and tumors. Also sponsors relevant research.
Meta Description: [ The Vascular Birthmarks Foundation provides support and resources for children and adults born with hemangiomas, port wine stains, and other vascular birthmarks. ]
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