A hemangioma is a benign tumor composed of an abnormal accumulation of blood vessels. Often appearing in infants within the first few weeks of life, these growths are usually harmless and tend to shrink and fade away over time without requiring treatment.
Hemangiomas are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that are formed due to an abnormal buildup of blood vessels. They are most commonly found in infants and children, usually appearing within the first few weeks of life. These growths can occur anywhere on the body, but they are most often found on the skin, particularly on the face, scalp, back, and chest.
A hemangioma is a benign vascular tumor resulting from an abnormal proliferation of blood vessels. These tumors are most frequently observed in infants, often appearing within the first few weeks of life and growing rapidly for several months before entering a phase of slow involution. Hemangiomas are classified into two main types: superficial (cutaneous) hemangiomas, which are found on the skin's surface, and deep (subcutaneous) hemangiomas, which develop beneath the skin. Superficial hemangiomas, also known as “strawberry marks”, are characterized by their bright red, raised, and often bumpy appearance. In contrast, deep hemangiomas may present as a bluish swelling under the skin, sometimes with an overlying purplish discoloration.
The etiology of hemangiomas is not entirely understood, but it is believed to involve genetic factors and possibly the influence of certain proteins involved in blood vessel formation. They are not typically inherited, and their occurrence is generally sporadic. Hemangiomas are more common in females than males and are more likely to develop in premature infants and those with low birth weight.
While most hemangiomas are harmless and do not require medical intervention, their location and size can occasionally lead to complications. For example, hemangiomas situated near the eyes, nose, or mouth may interfere with vital functions such as vision, breathing, or feeding. Additionally, large hemangiomas or those located in areas prone to friction may ulcerate, leading to pain and an increased risk of infection. In such cases, treatment may be necessary to manage these potential complications.
Red birthmarks are medically known as vascular birthmarks due to their formation from abnormal blood vessels. These birthmarks can be classified into two primary types: hemangiomas and port-wine stains.
Hemangiomas are benign tumors composed of an abnormal accumulation of blood vessels. They typically appear in the first few weeks of life, often on the face, scalp, chest, or back. Initially, they may look like small red or blue patches but can grow rapidly before eventually fading away on their own over time. Superficial hemangiomas, also known as strawberry marks, present as bright red and raised growths, while deep hemangiomas appear as bluish swellings under the skin.
Port-wine stains, or nevus flammeus, are flat, red or purple birthmarks that result from a malformation of capillaries, the small blood vessels near the skin's surface. Unlike hemangiomas, port-wine stains do not fade over time and may even become darker and more pronounced with age. These birthmarks are most commonly found on the face, neck, arms, or legs and can vary in size, from small patches to extensive areas covering significant portions of the body.
The exact cause of vascular birthmarks is not entirely understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors that influence blood vessel development. While most red birthmarks are harmless and do not require medical treatment, they can sometimes lead to complications or impact the individual's quality of life, particularly if they are located in sensitive areas or if their appearance causes psychological distress.
Hemangiomas are benign vascular tumors that are categorized into several types based on their location, depth, and appearance. The three primary types of hemangiomas are infantile hemangiomas, congenital hemangiomas, and cherry angiomas.
Infantile hemangiomas are the most common type, usually appearing within the first few weeks of life. These hemangiomas can be further classified into superficial hemangiomas, deep hemangiomas, and mixed hemangiomas. Superficial hemangiomas, often called “strawberry marks”, are characterized by their bright red, raised, and bumpy appearance on the skin's surface. Deep hemangiomas develop beneath the skin and present as bluish swellings that may be harder to detect initially. Mixed hemangiomas have both superficial and deep components, combining the characteristics of both types.
Congenital hemangiomas are present at birth and differ from infantile hemangiomas in their growth patterns and clinical behavior. These hemangiomas can be categorized into rapidly involuting congenital hemangiomas (RICH) and non-involuting congenital hemangiomas (NICH). RICH are notable for their rapid growth during the prenatal period and significant regression within the first year of life. They often leave behind a small area of redundant skin or fibrofatty tissue once they regress. NICH, on the other hand, do not undergo spontaneous regression and remain relatively stable in size over time. They may require medical intervention if they cause complications or aesthetic concerns.
Cherry angiomas, also known as senile angiomas or Campbell de Morgan spots, are small, bright red to purple lesions that commonly appear on the skin of adults. Unlike infantile and congenital hemangiomas, cherry angiomas are not typically present at birth but develop later in life, often increasing in number with age. These small vascular lesions are usually harmless and do not require treatment, although they can be removed for cosmetic reasons if desired.
In addition to these primary types, there are rare variants of hemangiomas, such as tufted angiomas and kaposiform hemangioendotheliomas. Tufted angiomas are slow-growing vascular tumors that often appear as red or purple patches and can sometimes cause pain and other symptoms. Kaposiform hemangioendotheliomas are more aggressive and can be associated with a life-threatening condition called Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon, characterized by low platelet counts and coagulopathy.
Understanding the different types of hemangiomas is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Each type has distinct clinical features and potential complications, requiring tailored approaches to treatment and monitoring. While most hemangiomas are benign and resolve without intervention, some cases may necessitate medical treatment to address functional or aesthetic concerns.
Hemangiomas predominantly affect infants and young children, making them one of the most common types of benign tumors in this age group. These vascular tumors typically manifest within the first few weeks of life and are more prevalent in certain populations. For example, hemangiomas are significantly more common in females than in males, with some studies suggesting a female-to-male ratio of 3:1. This gender disparity indicates that biological factors may play a role in their development, although the exact mechanisms are not yet fully understood.
Premature infants and those with low birth weight are also at a higher risk of developing hemangiomas. The incidence of these tumors is notably higher in infants born before 37 weeks of gestation or weighing less than 2.5 kg at birth. This increased susceptibility may be related to the immature development of the vascular system in premature and low-birth-weight infants, which could predispose them to the abnormal proliferation of blood vessels that characterizes hemangiomas.
While hemangiomas are most commonly seen in infants, they can occasionally affect older children and adults, although this is rare. In adults, hemangiomas tend to be of a different type, such as cherry angiomas or cavernous hemangiomas. Cherry angiomas are small, bright red lesions that appear on the skin and typically increase in number with age, while cavernous hemangiomas are larger, deeper vascular tumors that can occur in various organs, including the liver and brain.
Geographically, hemangiomas occur in populations worldwide, without significant differences in incidence based on ethnicity or race. However, certain genetic factors may predispose individuals to the development of these tumors. Some research suggests that specific genetic mutations or variations in genes involved in blood vessel formation and regulation could contribute to the risk of developing hemangiomas.
Although the majority of hemangiomas are benign and resolve without intervention, their impact on affected individuals can vary. Hemangiomas located in critical areas, such as near the eyes, nose, mouth, or airway, can interfere with vital functions like vision, breathing, or feeding. Large or rapidly growing hemangiomas may also cause discomfort, pain, or ulceration, leading to complications that require medical attention.
The exact cause of hemangiomas is not fully understood, but researchers believe that a combination of genetic, environmental, and developmental factors contribute to their formation. Hemangiomas are benign tumors formed by an abnormal proliferation of blood vessels. Several hypotheses attempt to explain why these vascular anomalies occur.
One leading hypothesis is that hemangiomas result from disruptions in the normal development of blood vessels during fetal growth. During embryonic development, a process called vasculogenesis leads to the formation of new blood vessels from precursor cells. If there is an imbalance in the signaling pathways that regulate this process, it can lead to the abnormal growth of blood vessels, resulting in a hemangioma.
Genetic factors also play a significant role in the development of hemangiomas. While most hemangiomas are not inherited, certain genetic mutations or variations in genes involved in angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels) may predispose an individual to develop these tumors. For example, mutations in genes that encode proteins such as VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) and its receptors can lead to uncontrolled blood vessel growth. Additionally, research has identified specific genetic syndromes, like PHACE syndrome, that are associated with a higher incidence of hemangiomas, suggesting a genetic component in their etiology.
Environmental factors may also contribute to the development of hemangiomas. Factors such as maternal health, prenatal conditions, and even external influences like hypoxia (low oxygen levels) during pregnancy can affect fetal blood vessel development. Hypoxia, in particular, is thought to trigger the release of certain growth factors that promote angiogenesis, potentially leading to the formation of hemangiomas.
Another theory involves the role of placental tissues in the development of hemangiomas. Some researchers believe that hemangiomas may originate from placental cells that migrate to the developing fetus during pregnancy. These cells could retain their ability to form blood vessels, leading to the growth of hemangiomas after birth.
Despite these hypotheses, the exact mechanisms underlying the development of hemangiomas remain unclear, and it is likely that multiple factors interact to cause these tumors. Continued research is essential to unravel the complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and developmental influences that lead to the formation of hemangiomas. Understanding the underlying causes of hemangiomas can help in the development of targeted therapies and improved management strategies for affected individuals.
The diagnosis of a hemangioma typically involves a combination of clinical examination, medical history, and, in some cases, imaging studies. The process generally begins with a thorough physical examination by a healthcare provider, who will assess the appearance, size, and location of the lesion. Hemangiomas often have characteristic features that distinguish them from other skin lesions, such as their bright red or bluish coloration, raised or flat surface, and rapid growth during the early months of life.
During the clinical examination, the healthcare provider will also take a detailed medical history, including information about the timing and progression of the lesion, any associated symptoms, and relevant family history. This information can help in differentiating hemangiomas from other vascular anomalies or skin conditions that may present with similar characteristics.
In many cases, the diagnosis of a hemangioma can be made based on the clinical examination and medical history alone. However, in certain situations, additional diagnostic tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis or assess the extent of the lesion. One common imaging modality used in the evaluation of hemangiomas is ultrasound. Ultrasound is a non-invasive and widely available technique that uses sound waves to create images of the soft tissues. It can help determine the depth and internal structure of the hemangioma, distinguishing it from other types of vascular tumors or malformations.
In more complex cases or when the hemangioma involves deeper structures, other imaging studies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans may be utilized. MRI is particularly useful for evaluating the extent of deep hemangiomas and their relationship to surrounding tissues, providing detailed images without exposure to ionizing radiation. CT scans, while less commonly used, can also provide valuable information about the anatomy of the lesion, especially when assessing hemangiomas located in critical areas such as the head and neck.
In rare instances, a biopsy may be performed to obtain a tissue sample for histopathological examination. This involves the removal of a small portion of the lesion, which is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist. Biopsy is generally reserved for cases where the diagnosis is uncertain or when there is a concern about the possibility of malignant transformation, which is extremely rare for hemangiomas.
The treatment of hemangiomas is tailored to the individual patient, considering factors such as the hemangioma's size, location, growth pattern, and potential impact on vital functions or appearance. In many cases, a “watchful waiting” approach is adopted, as most hemangiomas undergo a natural course of growth followed by spontaneous regression over time. This means that many hemangiomas will shrink and fade away without the need for medical intervention, especially those that are small and not causing any complications.
However, in situations where a hemangioma is causing functional impairment, pain, or cosmetic concerns, active treatment may be warranted.
One of the most commonly used treatments for problematic hemangiomas is the administration of beta-blockers, such as propranolol. Beta-blockers work by constricting the blood vessels within the hemangioma, reducing blood flow and leading to a decrease in size and color. Propranolol is often prescribed as an oral medication, and it has shown significant effectiveness in shrinking hemangiomas, particularly during the early proliferative phase.
Another treatment option is corticosteroids, which can be administered orally, topically, or through intralesional injections. Corticosteroids help to reduce inflammation and slow the growth of hemangiomas. While they have been used successfully for many years, their use has declined with the advent of beta-blockers, which are generally considered to be more effective and have fewer side effects.
For hemangiomas that are resistant to medication or located in sensitive areas, laser therapy can be a valuable treatment option. Lasers, such as the pulsed dye laser, target the blood vessels within the hemangioma, causing them to collapse and fade. Laser therapy is particularly effective for superficial hemangiomas and can help improve the appearance of residual skin changes after the hemangioma has involuted.
In rare cases where hemangiomas cause significant complications or do not respond to other treatments, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgery involves the removal of the hemangioma and is typically reserved for cases where the hemangioma is causing obstruction of vital structures, recurrent ulceration, or severe disfigurement. Surgical removal can provide immediate resolution of the lesion, but it also carries risks such as scarring and potential damage to surrounding tissues.
Hemangiomas, being benign vascular tumors, can be removed, although the necessity for removal depends on various factors such as the size, location, growth pattern, and potential impact on the individual's health and well-being.
In many cases, hemangiomas do not require removal as they tend to undergo a natural process of growth followed by spontaneous regression. Most hemangiomas shrink and fade away on their own over time, typically without causing significant problems.
However, there are certain situations where the removal of a hemangioma may be considered. For instance, if a hemangioma is located in a critical area and interferes with vital functions such as vision, breathing, or feeding, surgical removal may be necessary to prevent complications. Hemangiomas near the eyes, nose, mouth, or airway can obstruct these functions and require prompt medical intervention to ensure the individual's safety and quality of life.
In addition to functional concerns, hemangiomas that cause significant cosmetic issues or psychological distress may also be candidates for removal. Large or prominently located hemangiomas can affect an individual's appearance and self-esteem, particularly in cases where the hemangioma is visible on the face or other exposed areas of the body. In such instances, the removal of the hemangioma can help improve the individual's confidence and overall well-being.
The decision to remove a hemangioma is typically made by a healthcare provider in consultation with the patient or the patient's caregivers. Various treatment options are available depending on the specific characteristics of the hemangioma. Surgical removal, or excision, is one method that involves the physical removal of the hemangioma through a surgical procedure. This approach is often reserved for cases where other treatments have been ineffective or where immediate resolution of the lesion is necessary.
Other non-surgical treatment options may also be considered before opting for removal. These can include medications such as beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) or corticosteroids, which can help shrink the hemangioma and reduce its size and color. Laser therapy is another alternative, particularly effective for superficial hemangiomas, as it targets the blood vessels within the hemangioma and causes them to collapse and fade.
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The cost of hemangioma treatment in Iran can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of treatment, the size and location of the hemangioma, the healthcare facility, and the expertise of the medical professionals involved. Hemangiomas are benign vascular tumors that often do not require treatment, as they tend to regress on their own over time. However, in cases where treatment is necessary due to complications or cosmetic concerns, various options are available, each with its associated costs.
One of the most common treatments for hemangiomas is the use of beta-blockers, such as propranolol. This medication is typically administered orally and has been shown to be effective in reducing the size and color of hemangiomas. The cost of propranolol treatment can vary based on the dosage and duration of therapy, but it is generally considered to be a cost-effective option compared to other treatments.
Laser therapy is another treatment option for hemangiomas, particularly for superficial lesions. The cost of laser therapy can vary depending on the type of laser used, the number of sessions required, and the healthcare facility. In Iran, laser therapy for hemangiomas is more affordable compared to other countries.
Surgical removal of hemangiomas is typically reserved for cases where other treatments have been ineffective or where the hemangioma is causing significant functional or cosmetic issues. The cost of surgery can vary widely based on the complexity of the procedure, the location of the hemangioma, and the healthcare facility. In Iran, the cost of hemangioma surgery can range around 1,000-15,000 USD, depending on these factors.
The exact cause of hemangiomas is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and developmental factors that influence blood vessel formation during fetal development.
Most hemangiomas do not require treatment and tend to regress on their own over time without causing significant issues. However, treatment may be necessary if the hemangioma is causing complications, such as interfering with vital functions, becoming painful or ulcerated, or leading to significant cosmetic concerns.
There is currently no known way to prevent the development of hemangiomas, as their exact cause is not fully understood. Hemangiomas are generally not inherited and occur sporadically, meaning they can affect any infant regardless of family history or other risk factors.
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