What physical marks are commonly found on African American, Asian, and Hispanic children that may be mistaken for abuse?

Mongolian spots are common physical markings observed in individuals of African American, Asian, and Hispanic descent, particularly in infants and young children. These are essentially blue or blue-gray birthmarks that usually appear on the lower back and buttocks and are associated with a benign condition that tends to fade as the child grows older.

Understanding Mongolian spots is crucial, as they can easily be misinterpreted as bruises resulting from physical abuse in these populations. Medical professionals and caregivers must be aware of these non-abusive markings to prevent unnecessary investigations and distress for families. In contrast, the other choices, while they can also appear on the skin, do not share the same commonality with the demographics in question or are not typically mistaken for signs of abuse in the same way.