Sturge-Weber syndrome is a birth defect of small blood vessels.
Sturge-Weber syndrome causes a birthmark on the newborn's face
Most babies also have a blood vessel tumor (angioma) in the tissue covering the brain
Over time, children usually develop worsening eye and brain problems
Treatments can improve the appearance of the birthmark, and medicines can help some eye and brain problems
Sturge-Weber syndrome is caused by an abnormal gene. This gene was accidentally damaged when the baby was still in the womb. The abnormal gene isn't inherited from the parents.
Abnormal blood vessels that grow on the face cause a red or purple birthmark. Abnormal blood vessels that grow around the brain can cause brain damage or a stroke.
Babies have a birthmark on their face. The birthmark is usually on one side of the forehead and upper eyelid but may appear anywhere on the face. It's sometimes called a port-wine stain because the color ranges from light pink to deep purple.
In addition to the birthmark, the disorder can cause: