bruise-like spot on arm

[CoraAlly]

Hi there,

I've had a small spot on my arm since my teens: it's not painful, uncomfortable or itchy, not raised or lumpy, the only difference with the surrounding skin is its dark-blue color. I have never paid much attention to it and it has never changed for the 10+ years it's been there: it hasn't gotten bigger or smaller, or ever done much of anything except, well, be there and blue.

A friend of mine recently recommended I have it checked, and I have two questions: what are the possible explanations, and is it worth mentioning to a doctor?

Thanks in advance!

CA.

[CoraAlly]

Thanks for your responses! Wish you both wonderful holidays.

CA.

[bob_21286]

It could be some sort of birthmark. I am a physician and my advice is that if it has not changed in any way recently, I would say there is no reason for concern. In the future, if you find yourself aware of it for any other reason than it is there, I would schedule an appointment with your primary care doc to discuss it.

Bob

[Red_Star]

This could be a hemosiderin stain.  Hemosiderin staining is a part of bruising and the result of the iron left in tissues after blood loss into the tissues.  Usually bruises disappears over a short period of time but in some cases can be longer. After about 6 to 12 months, the odds are likely it is a permanent condition however it may still fade over time. The only type of laser treatment that may work is a Q-switched laser, the type of laser used in the treatment of removing tattoos. Check with your doctor just in case.