Simple Hemangioma Pictures - 51 Photos & Images

Hemangiomas are growths and collections of extra blood vessels and blood vessel cells in the skin and are one of the most common skin problems in the first year of life. The terminology for hemangiomas can be confusing. A more specific term for these lesions is “infantile hemangioma” or “hemangioma of infancy”. In the past, hemangiomas have been called “strawberry hemangiomas,” “cavernous hemangiomas,” or “capillary hemangiomas,” but these terms have fallen out of favor.

Hemangiomas may have different appearances, depending upon the depth of the blood vessels and the stage of growth. Superficial hemangiomas tend to be bright red and elevated with an uneven surface. Deep hemangiomas tend to be smooth on the surface, but blue in coloration. Many times, both superficial and deep (red and blue) components will be present together in the same hemangioma (this is referred to as a “mixed hemangioma”). Not infrequently, the more superficial types of hemangiomas will begin as flat pink areas, but rapidly change into the elevated bright red lesions. They often are mistaken initially as a bruise or a scratch. Hemangiomas look different as they grow, involute (get smaller), and eventually resolve.

As with all medical interventions, one must weigh the potential risks and benefits of treatment. Because of the natural history of eventual resolution of these lesions, we rarely need to medically intervene with aggressive therapy. When considering treatment, your baby’s doctor will take into account his/her age, location of the hemangioma on the body, hemangioma size, rate of growth, and other factors.

Reasons for treatment may include situations of severe ulceration (an open sore), potential for long-term disfigurement and problems with vital functions (including eating effectively, normal development of vision and hearing, breathing, etc). If a hemangioma grows very rapidly to a large size or becomes ulcerated, it may leave permanent scarring. There are some other rare situations that also require immediate intervention.

Children with hemangiomas that cause problems should be followed carefully by a specialist, such as a pediatric dermatologist (skin doctor for children) or other vascular anomalies specialist. For non-worrisome hemangiomas, intermittent observation by your pediatrician or family doctor is most appropriate. It may be helpful to take frequent pictures of your child as he or she develops. Bring these photos to your appointments so your physician can see how the hemangioma is changing.

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