Alternative Names
Cavernous hemangioma; Strawberry nevus
Definition of Hemangioma
A hemangioma is an abnormal buildup of blood vessels in the skin or internal organs.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
About 30% of hemangiomas are present at birth. The rest appear in the first several months of life.
Signs and tests
Hemangiomas are diagnosed by a physical examination. In the case of deep or mixed lesions, a or scan may be performed.
Treatment
Superficial or “strawberry” hemangiomas often are not treated. When they are allowed to disappear on their own, the result is usually normal-appearing skin. In some cases, a laser may be used to remove the small vessels.
Expectations (prognosis)
Small, superficial hemangiomas often disappear on their own. About 50% go away by age 5, and 90% are gone by age 9.
Review
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 10/10/2010
