A sharp line from the forehead to the pubis divides the body into 2 vertical halves. One side turns dark red, the other quite pale. The overall effect is reminiscent of the bold patches of color on a harlequin costume.
Posts: 3653 | Location: Ridgewood, N.J. USA | Registered: 05-30-03
It is rare, and usually only occurs immediately after birth. Babies' blood vessels start off highly reactive and unstable. A mild change in temperature or position or mood can cause swift changes in the diameters of the blood vessels, with resultant color changes of the overlying skin.
It is harmless, and temporary, and changing position can actually shift the color patterns.
Posts: 3653 | Location: Ridgewood, N.J. USA | Registered: 05-30-03
My son was 5 months old when it occurred (during a serious illness of Aspiration Pnuemonia, Congestive Heart Failure, Staph infection, Sepsis, newly diagnosed GERD - gastroesophageal reflux disease, Anemia, etc).
It was a very odd occurance.. and distressing on top of everything else he had going on!
Posts: 9142 | Location: PA, USA | Registered: 06-05-02
