Strawberry Hemangioma (Blood Vessel Birthmark)
Description
A hemangioma is a birthmark that consists of an abnormal collection of blood vessels in the skin. It typically grows during the first year of life then shrinks in size and is typically not noticible by year 10. These skin markings are usually benign and are not associated with any other medical conditions.
Symptoms
A red to reddish-purple mark on the skin, raised spongy growth on the skin. Most are on the face and neck. They are present at birth and typically disappear by year 10.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Hemangiomas are diagnosed by their characteristic appearance. No other tests are generally needed. They are observed over time.
Treatment
Most do not require treatment and can be simply observed. For lesions that grow quickly, are paticularly unsightly or painful, laser surgery can be done. At times steroids are injected into the skin lesions or are taken by mouth.
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