Infantile Hemangioma OverviewInfantile hemangioma is the most common tumor during infancy and typically appears as a mark or colored patch on the skin. It occurs more often in premature babies and those with low birthweight.
This article will explore the characteristics, occurrence, and growth of infantile hemangiomas, as well as their development and appearance.
Characteristics and Occurrence
– Premature babies and low birthweight infants are at a higher risk of developing infantile hemangiomas. – It is more common in girls and Caucasian children.
– Infantile hemangiomas are the most common tumor during infancy.
Growth and Involution
– Infantile hemangiomas undergo a growth phase, where they rapidly multiply and grow. – During this growth phase, they may appear bright red and raised.
– As they grow, they can cause a range of problems, including obstruction of vision, breathing, and feeding. – After the growth phase, infantile hemangiomas enter the involution phase, where they gradually shrink and flatten.
– During involution, scar tissue forms, replacing the extra blood vessels. – As the hemangioma shrinks, it may appear less red and eventually become unnoticeable.
Development and Appearance of Infantile Hemangioma
Formation and Structure
– Infantile hemangiomas form when blood vessels do not form correctly during fetal development. – They can appear at birth or within the first weeks or months of life.
– The abnormal blood vessels multiply and grow rapidly, leading to the appearance of infantile hemangiomas. – The exact cause of this abnormal formation is still unknown but genetic factors may play a role.
Types and Characteristics
– Deep infantile hemangiomas are located beneath the skin surface and often appear bluish in color. – Superficial infantile hemangiomas are located closer to the surface and are typically bright red.
– Bright red infantile hemangiomas are commonly referred to as strawberry birthmarks. – Strawberry birthmarks can vary in size and appearance, but they generally look like a raised, red, and bumpy mark on the skin.
– Some infantile hemangiomas may require medical intervention, especially if they cause complications or affect vital functions. Conclusion:
In conclusion, infantile hemangiomas are a common tumor that affects many infants, particularly those who are premature or have a low birthweight.
These hemangiomas go through a growth phase characterized by rapid multiplication and growth, followed by an involution phase where they gradually shrink and flatten. The development and appearance of infantile hemangiomas can vary, with deep and superficial variants, as well as the characteristic bright red strawberry birthmarks.
It is important to monitor and, if necessary, seek medical intervention for infantile hemangiomas that cause complications or affect vital functions.
Diagnosis and
PHACE Syndrome
Diagnosis Methods
To diagnose infantile hemangioma, doctors typically perform a thorough examination of the baby and take into consideration the mother’s pregnancy history and the overall health of the baby. In some cases, diagnostic tests such as ultrasound or MRI may be ordered to evaluate the internal structures and size of the hemangioma.
During an examination, the doctor will examine the hemangioma closely, noting its appearance, size, and location. They will also assess whether the hemangioma is affecting any vital functions such as vision or breathing.
Furthermore, they will inquire about any associated symptoms or complications. In cases where deeper hemangiomas are suspected, an ultrasound or MRI may be performed to obtain a clearer image of the affected area.
These imaging tests can help determine the extent of the hemangioma and identify any underlying complications.
PHACE Syndrome
In some instances, especially when the infantile hemangioma is present in specific locations or is large in size, the doctor may suspect a condition called PHACE syndrome. PHACE syndrome is a rare disorder associated with posterior fossa malformations, hemangiomas, arterial anomalies, cardiac defects, and eye abnormalities.
Posterior fossa malformations involve abnormality in the structures at the lower back of the brain. Arterial anomalies refer to abnormalities in the arteries, which can cause problems with the blood flow.
Cardiac defects may include coarctation of the aorta, which is a narrowing of the main artery that carries blood from the heart. Eye abnormalities can include structural defects or problems with vision.
Other associated characteristics of PHACE syndrome include sternal clefting or a supraumbilical raphe, which is a midline developmental anomaly. If a doctor suspects PHACE syndrome, further evaluation may be recommended, including additional imaging tests and consultations with specialists such as pediatric cardiologists, ophthalmologists, and neurologists.
It is crucial to identify and manage PHACE syndrome early, as it may require specialized care and monitoring due to the potential impact on various systems of the body.
Treatment Options for Infantile Hemangioma
Medical Treatment
Medical treatment options are available for infantile hemangiomas, particularly those that are causing complications or affecting vital functions. One commonly used treatment is the administration of beta blockers such as propranolol or timolol.
These medications can help shrink hemangiomas by constricting the blood vessels that supply them. Propranolol, which is commonly used for heart conditions, has been found to be effective in reducing the size and appearance of infantile hemangiomas.
It is typically prescribed as a liquid medicine that is given orally. Timolol, on the other hand, is often used as an eye drop for hemangiomas that affect the eyelids or the area around the eyes.
Although medical treatment with beta blockers is generally safe, there are potential risks and side effects that need to be considered. Close monitoring by a healthcare professional is essential to ensure the proper dosage and to monitor for any adverse effects.
Some infants may experience changes in heart rate, blood sugar levels, blood pressure, or breathing problems while taking these medications.
Surgical Treatment
In certain cases, surgical treatment may be necessary to address infantile hemangiomas. Surgical procedures are often considered when the hemangioma has significantly affected the surrounding structures or when there is a risk of functional impairment.
Surgical options can include removing the hemangioma entirely or addressing any complications caused by the hemangioma. These procedures are typically performed on an outpatient basis, under general anesthesia.
While surgical intervention can successfully address the problem, it is important to note that it may leave a permanent mark or scar. For some cases, reconstructive surgery may be recommended to improve any aesthetic concerns or functional impairments caused by the hemangioma.
Surgeons may use various techniques to remove or fix the scar tissue, helping restore a more natural appearance and function to the affected area. In conclusion, diagnosing infantile hemangioma involves a thorough examination and consideration of the baby’s health and pregnancy history.
In some cases, additional tests may be required to evaluate the extent of the hemangioma and identify any associated complications or syndromes such as PHACE syndrome. Treatment options for infantile hemangioma can include medical interventions with beta blockers to shrink the hemangioma and surgical procedures to remove or address complications.
It is crucial to work closely with healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual case. In conclusion, infantile hemangiomas are common tumors that occur in infancy, particularly in premature babies and those with low birthweight.
These tumors go through a growth phase followed by involution, where they gradually shrink and flatten. Diagnosis involves a thorough examination and, in some cases, additional tests may be needed to assess the extent of the hemangioma or identify associated syndromes like PHACE syndrome.
Treatment options include medical interventions with beta blockers and surgical procedures. It is essential to work closely with healthcare professionals to determine the most suitable treatment plan.
Understanding infantile hemangiomas and their management is crucial in ensuring optimal outcomes and improving the quality of life for affected infants.