Definition

A hemangioma is a type of birthmark. It develops shortly after birth, usually on the head or neck. It may be close to the surface of the skin or deeper below the skin.

For most, a hemangioma will grow quickly and then slowly disappear over time. It is often gone before puberty. If your child develops a birthmark that grows, talk to a doctor. Hemangiomas may need medical treatment.

Causes

A hemangioma is a cluster of blood vessels do not that form normally. It is not known what cause hemangiomas. It is also unclear on what makes them grow, or disappear.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase a baby's chance of a hemangioma include:

    
  • Being female
  • Caucasian
  • Premature birth

    • Symptoms

    Symptoms will depend on the location of the hemangioma:

        
  • A hemangioma that is close to the surface of the skin will:    
  • Appear as red "strawberry" or purple bump on the skin
  • may continue to grow and spread
  • A hemangioma the is deeper under the skin will appear as bluish swelling under the skin.

    • Most hemangiomas have no further symptoms. However, some large hemangiomas may lead to:

        
  • Ulceration—deep sores in the skin
  • Scarring
  • Disfigurement
  • Problems with growth and function of structures nearby such as eyes or airway
  • Abnormalities of the blood vessels of the eye or brain, as well as heart problems (associated with some hemangiomas of the face)

    • Diagnosis

    The doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Some hemangiomas are obvious with physical exam. If there is any question, your doctor may recommend testing. Tests may also be done to determine the size and effect on local organs.

    Tests that can make a picture of the hemangioma and surrounding structures include:

        
  • CT scan
  • MRI
  • Angiography

    • Treatment

    Most hemangiomas will resolve on their own. The mark will significantly fade by age five and nearly disappear by puberty. Your doctor may only recommend monitoring during the growth period.

    If the hemangioma is causing problems your doctor may recommend one of the following treatments:

        
  • Medication such as steroids, propranolol, or vincristine
  • Surgery—particularly for hemangiomas that are causing pain or problems with sight or breathing
  • Lasers—most effective on superficial hemangiomas

    • If ulcers have developed more aggressive treatment may be needed. It may require a combination of treatments above.

    Prevention

    There is no way to prevent hemangiomas.