Hemangioma
Alternative names:
cavernous hemangioma; strawberry nevus
Treatment:
Superficial or "strawberry hemangiomas" often are not treated as treatment may leave a cosmetic defect, letting the lesion to undergo spontaneous involution produces normal-appearing skin. In some cases, a laser may be used to eradicate the small vessels. Cavernous hemangiomas that involve the eyelid and obstruct vision are generally treated with injections of steroids or laser treatments that rapidly reduce the size of the lesions, allowing the development of normal vision.
Large cavernous hemangiomas or mixed hemangiomas, when appropriate, are treated with oral steroids and injections of steroids directly into the hemangioma. Recently, lasers have been used to reduce the bulk of the hemangiomas. Lasers emitting yellow light can selectively damage the vessels in the hemangioma without damaging the overlying skin. YAG lasers spare the skin by treating the hemangioma from within using a glass fiber delivery system. Some physicians are using a combination of steroid injection and laser therapy together.
Expectations (prognosis):
Small superficial hemangiomas should involute completely. Large cavernous hemangiomas should be evaluated by a physician and treated appropriately.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
All birthmarks, including hemangiomas, should be evaluated by the health care provider during a routine examination.
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