Hemangioma

A hemangioma is a vascular anomaly commonly described as an abnormal grouping of extra blood vessels, and it can occur above or below the skin, or even within the internal organs. In actuality, a hemangioma is a benign tumor of endothelial cells which form the lining of the blood vessels. The most noted characteristic is the rapid growth of the hemangioma, which then subsides and in some cases, disappears.


While it is believed that a hemangioma is a birth defect that occurs due to a reaction to proteins formed in the placenta during pregnancy, this assumption remains unconfirmed. Medical experts are not sure as to the origin of the condition and it is not known what causes it. Hemangiomas often occur on the head and neck area, but they can appear anywhere on the body. For parents, it’s most disturbing when they appear over the face, although, it usually doesn’t cause the infant any pain. When hemangiomas form near sensitive areas such as the eyes, ears, or mouth, they often interfere with normal functions and can even cause impairment. In cases where a hemangioma forms at the site of a vital organ, the consequences could be life threatening. To avoid prolonged suffering or discomfort, it is important that these lesions are treated early on, although it is not necessarily required.


There are several complications that can occur with hemangiomas, the most common of them being ulcers. Usually these occur around the mouth and genital area; some heal within a few weeks on their own while others generally require topical antibiotics. Injuries to the hemangioma may cause bleeding, but this can easily be stopped by applying firm pressure to the area. There are times when the complications of a hemangioma can be so severe that they require laser treatment or surgical removal.


As unsightly as they may be, it’s not uncommon for hemangiomas to heal naturally and fade on their own. If there is no interference with the hemangioma during the healing period, the resulting skin is clear and normal looking. In fact, if left alone, most hemangiomas will disappear by the age of 5, and at the latest, by the age of 9. Of course, most parents seek corrective treatment well before the age of 5 to avoid the social implications their child may face, and for most, it may be best. Regardless, there are times when the size of the hemangioma gets to be so large that surgical correction is needed because of the distortion they have caused to the affected area. For most, the outcome is just a scar, while others have to undergo several procedures to achieve a desirable restoration.


In any event, it is important to seek a physician or other medical professional to receive a proper diagnosis. And while there is no way to prevent hemangiomas from developing, it is always a good idea to halt their growth to avoid any further health problems.