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he truth about Mongolian spots is revealed! Why do these mysterious "blue traces" appear in various ethnic groups
On the skin of newborn babies, a mysterious blue mark—Mongolian spots—occasionally appears. Generally considered benign, this flat congenital birthmark with wavy edges and irregular shape has attracted the attention of countless researchers since the 19th century. At first, the Mongolian spot was mistakenly thought to be a unique feature of the Mongolian people. However, with the advancement of science, we have realized that this birthmark is quite common among many different ethnic groups. What is the scientific basis and cultural significance behind it?
Causes of formation of Mongolian spots
Mongolian spots are a congenital developmental skin condition that is usually present at birth. The blue color of this birthmark comes from melanocytes, which are normally located in the surface layer of skin (epidermis), but in Mongolian spots, these cells move to the deeper layers of skin (dermis) during development and become trapped. It usually appears as multiple small spots or one large patch, mainly on the lower back, buttocks, sides and shoulders.
"These misunderstandings about Mongolian spots sometimes lead to concerns about suspected abuse."
Anthropological description
French anthropologist Robert Gessain has shown a strong interest in the study of Mongolian spots in different cultures. He has discussed the color, location and ethnic distribution of birthmarks in many papers. His research shows that Mongolian spots are not only seen in babies from Mongolia or Japan, but are also common among some indigenous groups in the Americas, Asia and Australia. Different cultures have their own explanations for this phenomenon.
Epidemiology of Mongolian spots
Research points out that the incidence of Mongolian spots varies greatly among different populations. For example, about 80% of Asian babies will be born with Mongolian spots, while the rate is as high as 85% among Native American babies. Among African-American children, the incidence rate is even 90% to 96%. These figures not only show the universality of Mongolian spots, but also trigger in-depth thinking about their cultural and social significance.
"The existence of Mongolian spots has triggered relative social and racial discourses across cultures, showing how cultural views on physical characteristics can influence people's acceptance of these characteristics."
Cultural terminology of Mongolian spots
In different cultures, Mongolian spots have their own unique names and explanations. For example, in Japan, it is called "尻が青い", which means immaturity or lack of experience; while in Korean mythology, the Mongolian spot is interpreted as a postpartum gift from the midwife spirit. In addition, social attitudes toward such birthmarks have changed throughout history, with prejudice in some cultures gradually being replaced by acceptance.
Treatment and Prospects
From a medical perspective, Mongolian spots are benign birthmarks that usually do not require treatment and will disappear naturally before puberty in most cases. Therefore, parents do not need to worry too much if their babies have Mongolian spots. Understanding its scientific basis and cultural significance may reduce unnecessary anxiety.
Mongolian spots, which may seem ordinary but trigger many thoughts, not only reveal a physiological variation of human skin, but also reflect the views and reactions of culture and society on physiological characteristics. So, does the Mongolian spot provide us with a profound understanding of the human community?
