Hello, I'm a medical professional with a focus on dermatology. Let's dive into the topic of hemangiomas.
A
hemangioma is a
benign tumor made up of
blood vessels. When it occurs on the skin, it's known as a
cutaneous hemangioma. These growths are typically
bright red or
purple and can be
raised above the skin's surface. They are often
soft and
compressible, meaning they can be pressed down and will return to their original shape when released. Hemangiomas can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the face, scalp, or trunk.
Hemangiomas are most commonly seen in
infants and
young children, and they often grow rapidly during the first few months or years of life, a process known as a
rapid involution. After this period, they may slowly
regress, or fade away, on their own. However, not all hemangiomas disappear completely, and in some cases, they can leave behind a mark or skin changes.
The exact cause of hemangiomas is not entirely understood, but they are thought to be related to
abnormal blood vessel formation during a critical period of fetal development. They are not typically associated with any serious health risks unless they are located in areas that could cause functional problems or disfigurement.
Treatment for hemangiomas is often not necessary unless the lesion is causing problems such as bleeding, infection, or interference with vital functions like vision or breathing. In such cases, treatments may include
medications,
laser therapy, or
surgery.
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