Hemangioma

Hemangioma on extremity

Hemangioma of the liver as seen on ultrasound

Introduction

A hemangioma represents a typically benign vascular tumor stemming from blood vessel cell types. Among the myriad of types, the most prevalent form is the infantile hemangioma, colloquially known as a "strawberry mark", primarily noticeable on the skin at birth or during the initial weeks of life. While a hemangioma can surface anywhere on the body, they are predominantly seen on the face, scalp, chest, or back. Ordinarily, treatment for a hemangioma is not required unless it obstructs vision or respiration, or in rare cases where an internal hemangioma leads to or exacerbates other medical conditions.

Types of Hemangioma

Hemangiomas are benign tumors of the vascular system, exhibiting various types and forms. The International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) continually revises the terminology for these hemangioma types, improving the understanding and classification of these conditions.

Infantile Hemangioma

Infantile hemangioma is the most common type of vascular birthmark. This benign vascular tumor often appears during the first or second week of life as a faint red stain or patch, rapidly growing for up to 6-9 months before it begins to slowly regress, typically disappearing by the time the child is ten years old.

Congenital Hemangioma

Congenital hemangiomas are fully formed at birth, unlike infantile hemangiomas which proliferate after birth. These vascular lesions can be categorized into rapidly involuting congenital hemangiomas (RICH) which resolve spontaneously within the first year of life, and non-involuting congenital hemangiomas (NICH) which do not involute but remain static in size.

Cavernous Liver Hemangioma

A cavernous liver hemangioma is a subtype of hemangioma that occurs in the liver. These are typically asymptomatic and are most often discovered incidentally during imaging for unrelated conditions.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a hemangioma often involves a thorough clinical evaluation, detailed patient history, and specialized tests or procedures such as ultrasonography, MRIs, or biopsies, if necessary. The exact diagnostic processes can vary depending upon the type and location of the hemangioma.

Treatment

Treatment of hemangiomas is typically not required unless they interfere with vital functions or pose potential risks. When intervention is necessary, treatment options may include medication, laser therapy, surgical removal, or in some cases, a combination of these approaches. Topical or oral beta blockers, such as propranolol, have emerged as first-line treatment for problematic infantile hemangiomas. Other therapies for severe cases might include corticosteroids, vincristine, or interferon.

Conclusion

Hemangiomas, while benign, can create functional and cosmetic concerns depending on their size, location, and rate of growth. Although most hemangiomas resolve naturally, some require medical intervention. Ongoing advancements in the understanding and treatment of these vascular anomalies continue to improve the prognosis for affected individuals.

Hemangioma Resources
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