Hello and welcome to this informative space! If you find yourself among the many parents puzzled by a prominent, raised ‘birthmark’ on your little one, I completely understand your concerns that might lead you to reach out to a specialist repeatedly. I want to reassure you that you’re not alone in this journey.
As a pediatric plastic surgeon and a father, I understand the anxiety that a new parent can feel. The term you’re encountering is “hemangioma.” While it may sound daunting, rest assured that these growths are far less concerning than they appear.
What is a Hemangioma?
Hemangiomas are relatively common vascular birthmarks that typically emerge in the early weeks of life. They can grow for up to 10 to 14 months before beginning to shrink and fade away. These benign tumors consist of clusters of blood vessels beneath the skin and are sometimes referred to as “strawberry marks.” While they don’t appear at birth, watching one develop can certainly cause alarm. If I were to see one on my child for the first time without knowledge of what it was, I would share your worries.
Understanding Hemangiomas
It’s important to emphasize that hemangiomas are benign and generally resolve by the time a child reaches about five years old. I encounter these conditions frequently in my practice.
So, why do they occur? Despite extensive research, the exact cause remains largely unknown. However, there are some reassuring facts to keep in mind:
- They are NOT genetic,
- They do NOT result from any toxic exposure during pregnancy, and
- They do NOT pose a risk of cancer or indicate serious health issues in most instances.
Isn’t that a relief?
Next Steps
Now, what should you do next? Obtaining an accurate diagnosis is crucial. Although more than 90% of hemangiomas can be identified based solely on appearance (ideally by a board-certified pediatric plastic surgeon), there are other birthmarks, like “Cupid’s kiss” or “stork bites,” that may resemble hemangiomas but don’t follow the same course. It’s vital to consult a specialist to ensure you understand what you’re dealing with.
Once you have a diagnosis, the next step is determining a management plan. What if it grows too large? What if it bleeds? What if the skin becomes inflamed? There’s no need to panic—these are just hypothetical scenarios. Most hemangiomas can be monitored until they naturally resolve over time, even the larger ones located on the chest, abdomen, or limbs. However, if the hemangioma is situated on your child’s face and is affecting vision, there are options for removal, though this comes with benefits and drawbacks. My general philosophy is that surgery is often unnecessary unless it obstructs function or causes notable disfigurement. You might also want to discuss propranolol, a medication traditionally used for blood pressure, which has shown efficacy in managing hemangiomas in infants. However, if the hemangioma isn’t impacting your child’s well-being, I usually recommend a watchful waiting approach.
Final Thoughts
As a surgeon and a father of two daughters, my most significant message to you is this: you are not alone, and these birthmarks are not harmful. Hemangiomas occur in about one in ten children, making them quite common. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a specialist for reassurance. In the meantime, take a deep breath. Your baby will be fine, and so will you. I can assure you of that.
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In Summary
Hemangiomas are benign vascular birthmarks that are common among infants, usually resolving without intervention. Understanding their nature can alleviate parental anxiety, and seeking expert advice is a great step in managing any concerns.