A hemangioma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor made up of blood vessels that typically appears on the skin or sometimes internally. It is one of the most common vascular tumors in infants and usually becomes noticeable in the first weeks of life.
The exact cause of hemangiomas is not known. They are not usually present at birth but develop shortly afterwards. Researchers believe they may be caused by certain proteins produced in the placenta during fetal development. There's no known prevention as the cause is largely believed to be related to genetic factors.
Yes, hemangiomas can be classified into two main types:
Hemangiomas are usually diagnosed based on a physical examination by a pediatrician. If there's uncertainty about the diagnosis or concern about an internal hemangioma, imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI may be recommended to assess the hemangioma's size and depth.
Many hemangiomas do not require treatment and will start to fade and shrink on their own by the time a child is 5 to10 years old. Treatment may be necessary if the hemangioma is in a problematic location (such as near the eyes, nose or mouth), is causing symptoms (like pain or bleeding) or is associated with complications.
Treatment options can include observation, medication (such as beta-blockers), laser therapy and in rare cases, surgery. The choice of treatment depends on the hemangioma's size, location and the presence of any symptoms or complications.
Once a hemangioma has fully shrunk and faded, it is unlikely to reappear. Some residual skin changes might remain, such as slight discoloration or extra skin, especially in larger hemangiomas. Ongoing or new treatments can address these cosmetic concerns.
Supporting a child with a hemangioma involves monitoring their condition, following through with recommended treatments and addressing any emotional or social impacts. We also recommend educating family and friends about hemangiomas to foster a supportive environment and consider joining support groups for families dealing with vascular anomalies.
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