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Explore the Skin Problems Image Gallery to learn about hemangiomas, a frequent vascular birthmark in children. Discover more skin condition visuals.
©iStockphoto.com/Lawrence SawyerDiscovering a spot on your newborn might initially cause concern. However, if it’s small and red, it’s likely harmless. Always consult a doctor, but it’s probably a hemangioma. These are benign vascular birthmarks caused by excess blood vessels and are quite common, affecting roughly one in 50 infants [source: Greene].
Hemangiomas usually appear as flat, red marks on the skin and grow over time. They are categorized into two primary types: capillary and cavernous [source: O'Malley]. Capillary hemangiomas, also known as superficial or strawberry hemangiomas, are raised, red growths on the skin. Cavernous hemangiomas, or deep hemangiomas, form under the skin, causing a purple bulge. When both types are present, they are called compound hemangiomas, which often grow larger [source: American Osteopathic College of Dermatology].
Unlike most birthmarks, hemangiomas are generally not permanent. They often emerge shortly after birth, expand in size, and then gradually shrink over time [source: Mayo Clinic]. While most fade away naturally, this process can sometimes take up to a decade. Although typically harmless and painless, hemangiomas near the eyes or ears require monitoring as they may cause complications. In rare instances, they can pose serious health risks, so consulting a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment is essential [source: Cincinnati Children's].
Continue reading to uncover the reasons behind these prevalent birthmarks.
What Causes a Hemangioma?
Hemangiomas are frequently observed in newborns. They are more common in girls, twins, light-skinned infants, and premature babies with low birth weight [sources: Children's Hospital Boston, Mayo Clinic]. But what exactly triggers the appearance of hemangiomas?
Researchers remain uncertain about the exact cause of hemangiomas. These birthmarks remain a medical mystery, with no definitive explanation. There is no evidence of genetic inheritance, though 10 percent of affected infants have relatives with vascular birthmarks [source: Children's Hospital Boston].
While the exact cause remains unclear, certain factors can be ruled out. For instance, mothers often question if their actions during pregnancy led to their baby’s hemangioma, but no evidence supports this [source: Children's Hospital Boston]. Research has not established a link between a mother’s diet, medications, or behaviors during pregnancy and the development of hemangiomas [source: Cincinnati Children's].
One potential factor beyond a mother’s control may contribute to hemangioma formation. Some studies suggest a connection between these growths and proteins or cells transferred from the placenta to the baby [sources: Mayo Clinic, Hochman]. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Since the exact cause of hemangiomas is unknown, prevention is impossible, and treatment can be challenging. While many hemangiomas resolve without intervention, some require medical care. Even when not medically necessary, treatment may be recommended for cosmetic reasons, as these growths can affect a child’s appearance and self-esteem. Additionally, parents may worry about potential discomfort caused by the hemangioma.
Continue reading to learn whether hemangiomas cause pain in infants.
Besides hemangiomas, the two other primary vascular birthmarks are macular stains and port wine stains. Macular stains, commonly known as salmon patches, are flat, pink marks often found on a child’s face or neck. Port wine stains are deeper, wine-colored marks typically appearing on the face, neck, arms, or legs [source: Kids Health].
Are Hemangiomas Painful for Babies?
While hemangiomas may appear concerning, most are entirely harmless. Touching them typically doesn’t cause discomfort to the baby, which is reassuring. However, depending on their location, some hemangiomas can lead to complications. In rare instances, they may even pose serious health risks.
Over 80 percent of hemangiomas appear on the head and neck, while others can form anywhere, including internally [source: Hochman]. If they develop in sensitive areas, they can impact functions like vision, breathing, or hearing. For instance, a hemangioma on the eyelid may impair sight, while one near the throat or mouth could affect breathing, eating, or speech. Similarly, growths near the ear might lead to hearing issues.
In extremely rare cases, hemangiomas can form inside the body, affecting organs like the liver, intestines, or brain [source: Vascular Birthmarks Foundation]. They have also been linked to internal bleeding and heart complications. Such occurrences are uncommon, affecting only about 1 percent of infants with hemangiomas [source: Children's Hospital Boston].
Ulcers are a frequent complication of hemangiomas, often appearing near the mouth or genital area. These can usually be managed with topical treatments [source: Children's Hospital Boston]. While bleeding is rare, applying pressure is typically sufficient to control it if it occurs.
While most hemangiomas don’t need treatment, medical intervention may be necessary if they cause complications or disrupt a child’s daily life. What treatment options are available?
Although hemangiomas affect only about 2 percent of babies, birthmarks in general are more prevalent. Vascular birthmarks alone impact over 10 percent of the population [source: Hochman].
Hemangioma Treatments
Most hemangiomas resolve without treatment, but various options exist for complications. Treatments range from laser therapy and medications to plastic surgery, which can reduce the size, improve appearance, or completely remove the hemangioma.
Doctors have differing views on treating hemangiomas. Many prefer a wait-and-see approach since they often disappear naturally, unless there’s a medical risk. Others advocate for early treatment to prevent growth and allow ample time for recovery [source: American Osteopathic College of Dermatology].
Laser therapy is a viable option for superficial hemangiomas. It can diminish the redness, halt growth, and sometimes eliminate the lesion entirely [source: Mayo Clinic]. However, some doctors avoid lasers for growing hemangiomas due to risks like scarring. Instead, lasers are often used to address residual marks after the hemangioma has naturally faded [sources: Cincinnati Children's, Children's Hospital Boston].
For cavernous or compound hemangiomas, corticosteroids can be administered orally, topically, or via injection. These medications are effective during the growth phase and may show results within weeks [sources: Mayo Clinic, Cincinnati Children's]. If corticosteroids fail, alternatives like beta blockers or interferon alfa, a protein-based treatment, may be considered [source: Mayo Clinic, American Osteopathic College of Dermatology]. Potential side effects include irritability, swelling, fever, agitation, and neurological issues.
Surgery is considered when a hemangioma poses significant risks and doesn’t respond to lasers or medication. It’s typically a last resort due to risks like bleeding, infection, and scarring [source: American Osteopathic College of Dermatology].
Since medical opinions vary and there’s no universal treatment plan, decisions should be tailored to each individual case.
Continue reading to discover more about hemangiomas.
Birthmarks are common among people from all walks of life, including celebrities. For instance, Mikhail Gorbachev, the former Soviet Union leader, has one on his scalp, Tina Turner sports one on her arm, and NFL star Drew Brees has a birthmark on his cheek [source: Birthmarks].
