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A Hemangioma is a dense collection of blood vessels that is formed either during gestation or during the first few months of life. Hemangiomas occur in approximately ten percent of Caucasians, and are less prevalent in other races. Females are three to five times more likely to have hemangiomas than males. Hemangiomas can be vivid superficial lesions (known as capillary hemangiomas), deep growths with little skin discoloration (known as cavernous hemangiomas), or a combination of both. Approximately eighty percent are located on the face and neck, with the next most prevalent location being the liver. Although hemangiomas are benign, some serious complications can occur.
Complications
Since hemangiomas are formed from blood vessels, trauma can result in excessive bleeding. Massive hemangiomas can also form ulcers. Very rarely, extremely large hemangiomas can cause high output heart failure due to the amount of blood that must be pumped to the excess blood vessels. Lesions adjacent to bone can also cause erosion. Perhaps the most serious complication, however, is the psychosocial damage caused by the overreaction of poorly informed peers.
Treatment
Most hemangiomas disappear without treatment, leaving no visible marks. Large cavernous hemangiomas can leave visible skin changes. When cavernous hemangiomas interfere with either vision or breathing, they can be removed with corticosteroid injection or laser treatment. Conventional surgery is usually not used, due to the large amount of blood lost from a hemangioma.
Prognosis
Hemangiomas go through three stages of development and decay. First is the proliferation stage, where the hemangioma grows very quickly. This can last up to nine months. Second is the rest stage, where there is very little change in the hemangioma's appearance. This usually lasts until the infant is one year old. Third is the involution phase, where the hemangioma finally begins to diminish in size. This stage usually finishes within the first five to seven years of life, with ninety percent of hemangiomas completely gone by the time the child is nine years old.
External Links
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"Hemangioma"