A hemangioma is a type of benign (non-cancerous) tumor that develops from blood vessels. It is one of the most common types of vascular birthmarks, appearing as a red or purple growth on the skin or in deeper tissues such as the liver or spleen. Hemangiomas are usually present at birth or develop shortly thereafter, and they typically grow rapidly during the first year of life before stabilizing and often shrinking over time.
There are two main types of hemangiomas:
- Capillary Hemangiomas: These are the most common type and are made up of small blood vessels called capillaries. They often appear on the skin as a bright red patch or raised bump.
- Cavernous Hemangiomas: These are deeper in the skin or internal organs and are made up of larger blood vessels. They may present as a bluish lump under the skin or may not be visible externally if they are located internally.
Most hemangiomas do not cause any symptoms or health problems and may not require treatment, especially if they are small and not located in a critical area. However, some hemangiomas can be problematic if they grow in certain locations or if they interfere with organ function. Treatment options for hemangiomas include medications, laser therapy, surgery, or other procedures, depending on the size, location, and severity of the hemangioma.