Hemangioma

A hemangioma is a usually benign vascular tumor derived from blood vessel cell types. The most common form is infantile hemangioma, known colloquially as a 'strawberry mark', most commonly seen on the skin at birth or in the first weeks of life. A hemangioma can occur anywhere on the body, but most commonly appears on the face, scalp, chest or back. Treatment of a hemangioma is usually unnecessary unless the nodule interferes with vision or breathing, or in rare cases of internal hemangiomas causes or contributes to other medical problems. A hemangioma is a usually benign vascular tumor derived from blood vessel cell types. The most common form is infantile hemangioma, known colloquially as a 'strawberry mark', most commonly seen on the skin at birth or in the first weeks of life. A hemangioma can occur anywhere on the body, but most commonly appears on the face, scalp, chest or back. Treatment of a hemangioma is usually unnecessary unless the nodule interferes with vision or breathing, or in rare cases of internal hemangiomas causes or contributes to other medical problems. Hemangiomas are benign (noncancerous) vascular tumors, and many different types occur. The correct terminology for these hemangioma types is constantly being updated by the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA). A cavernous liver hemangioma or hepatic hemangioma is a benign tumour of the liver composed of hepatic endothelial cells. It is the most common liver tumour, and is usually asymptomatic and diagnosed incidentally on radiological imaging. Liver haemangiomas are thought to be congenital in origin. Several subtypes exist, including the giant hepatic haemangioma, which can cause significant complications. Diagnosis is usually clinical and tests are not necessary. Hemangiomas usually fade gradually over time, and most do not require treatment. Therapeutic options can have side effects and are avoided if possible. However, hemangiomas that may be disfiguring or that are located at sites that can cause impairment (eyelids, airway) are often treated, typically with pharmacotherapy first. Management options may include: