Hemangiomas

What is a hemangioma?

Hemangiomas are collections of blood vessels under the skin that are either present at birth or shortly thereafter. They often grow during the first year of life and go away on their own by puberty.

How common are hemangiomas?

Hemangiomas are the most common tumors found in pediatrics. They are also most commonly found in the head and neck.

What causes hemangiomas?

The cause of hemangiomas is unknown. Some factors that increase a baby’s chance of developing a hemangioma include being female, Caucasian, and premature birth.

How are hemangiomas diagnosed?

Hemangiomas are often diagnosed by physical examination, but can require CT scans or MRIs to aid in diagnosis.

How are hemangiomas treated?

Treatment options should be discussed with your surgeon, but can include medication taken both mouth, injectable steroids or sclerosing agents, surgical removal, or laser therapy.