Hemangiomas are also referred to as cavernous hemangiomas and strawberry nevus. Hemangiomas represent a dense collection of abmormally dilated small blood vessels. They may occur in the top layers of the skin and produce a capillary hemangioma. When they occur deeper in the skin, they produce a cavernous hemangioma. They may involved other tissues, bones and organs.
Hemangiomas are usually present at birth, although they may appear within a few months after birth. they may arise in a site that has previously appeared slightly dusky or differently colored than the surrounding tissue.
Hemangiomas may undergo a rapid growth phase in which the volume and size increase rapidly. Followinig this growth phase, typically there is a rest phase, in which the hemangioma changes very little. Later, some hemangiomas may undergo an involutional phase in which the hemangioma begins to disappear. At times, they will completely disappear.
Large cavernous hemangiomas distort the skin around them and will ultimately leave visible changes in the skin. A superficial capillary hemangioma may involute completely, leaving no evidence of its past presence.
Large cavernous hemangiomas may compromise the skin or other tissues in which they occur and lead to ulceration of these tissues and secondary infection. Bleeding is common and may be significant following injury to the hemangioma.
Causes of Hemangioma
Hemangiomas represent a developmental abnormality. They may be influenced by hormonal changes.
Signs and Symptoms of Hemangioma
Hemangiomas of the skin produce a reddish-purple, raised lesion on the skin. Very large lesions may produce a mass or tumor filled with abnormal blood vessels.
Hemangiomas involving other organs can lead to damage of those organs, especially if hemorrhage occurs. Involvement of the bones of the spine can lead to back or neck pain. If there is rapid growth, the nerves or spinal cord may become compressed, leading to numbness weakness or paralyisi.
Occasionally, a hemangioma may be associated with other rare syndromes. Additional studies may be done to determine if any of these syndromes are present.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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