Infantile Hemangioma

Abstract

Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are the most benign vascular tumors of infancy. IHs occur in 10–12% of infants. They often appear within 1–4 weeks of life. Superficial lesions are bright red or “strawberry” in color, sharply demarcated papules, nodules or plaques. Deep lesions are of bluish hue and dome-shaped. IHs are described as localized or focal, segmental, indeterminate or multifocal pattern, depending on the anatomic appearance. Segmental lesions are often associated with complications. High-risk IH groups which have severe complications can be observed in IHs with disfigurement, life-threatening complications, functional impairment, ulceration and associated structural anomalies; PHACE syndrome (Posterior fossa brain malformations and large facial hemangiomas, Hemangiomas of the cervicofacial region, Arterial anomalies, Coarctation of the aorta and cardiac defects, Eye abnormalities, Sternal cleft and supraumbilical raphe) and LUMBAR syndrome (Lower body hemangioma often extending onto a unilateral lower extremity, Urogenital anomalies, ulceration, Myelopathy, Bony deformities, Anorectal malformations, arterial anomalies and Renal anomalies). Early treatment is vital to avoid complications in high-risk IHs. The presence of segmental IH larger than 5 cm on face, scalp or cervical region is the major sign of PHACE syndrome, whereas segmental IHs affecting the lower body are the significant signs of LUMBAR syndrome.