Hemangiomas
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1 in 10 infants
will develop a hemangioma within the first few weeks of life
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75% of individuals over age 70
exhibit cherry hemangiomas
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3 to 5 times
more likely to occur in female infant than males
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25%
of premature babies weighing under 1kg developing a lesion
UNDERSTANDING Hemangiomas
Precision Care for Hemangiomas: Beyond the Surface of Vascular Growth
For parents and patients in Birmingham, the sudden appearance of a bright red “strawberry” mark or a deep purple vascular lesion can be a source of significant concern. Whether it is an infantile hemangioma appearing shortly after birth or a cherry hemangioma developing in adulthood, these growths are more than cosmetic “spots”—they are complex vascular proliferations.
The Anatomy of a Hemangioma
Clinically, a hemangioma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor made up of an abnormal buildup of blood vessels. This condition is a disorder of Vascular Endothelial Proliferation. In the case of Infantile Hemangiomas, the growth is characterized by a rapid “proliferation phase” where blood vessels multiply quickly, followed by a slow “involution phase.” These lesions can be Superficial (bright red and textured), Deep (bluish or skin-colored), or Mixed, depending on which layer of the cutaneous architecture is involved.
Targeted Vascular Protocols at Inverness Dermatology
We categorize Hemangiomas (ICD-10: D18.01) by their growth pattern and depth to ensure the most effective medical intervention.
Our team focuses on Safe, Proactive Management. Treatment plans are dynamic, structured to arrest the growth of proliferating lesions and reduce the appearance of permanent vascular staining. A critical pillar of our trust promise is Functional Protection. We prioritize early intervention for lesions near sensitive areas—such as the eyes or mouth—to prevent vision or feeding obstructions, protecting the integrity of your skin and overall health.
CLINICAL DETAILS
A Breakdown of Hemangiomas
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Cherry Hemangioma
Common, benign vascular proliferation in adults; also known as senile angioma.
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Infantile Hemangioma
Benign vascular tumor of childhood; exhibits rapid proliferation followed by slow involution.
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Port-Wine Stain (Capillary Malformation)
A congenital capillary malformation (Birthmark); does not regress and grows proportionally with the patient.
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Pyogenic Granuloma
A reactive vascular lesion often following minor trauma; characterized by rapid growth and easy bleeding.
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Venous Malformation
A low-flow vascular malformation present at birth; composed of abnormally formed, dilated veins.
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Spider Angioma
A central red arteriole with radiating "legs" of smaller vessels; often associated with sun damage or hormonal changes.
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Lentigo Maligna
(Crucial Differential) Melanoma in situ; included to emphasize the need for board-certified screening of any pigmented lesion.
EVIDENCE-BASED CARE
Our Treatment Approach
Board-certified dermatologists are specially trained to diagnose and provide customized treatments.
The Science of Skin Renewal (How Treatment Works)
Our approach focuses on Vascular Constriction and Thermal Coagulation.
- For infantile cases, we may utilize medical-grade Beta-Blockers (topical or oral) to shrink vessels by inducing vasoconstriction.
- For adult cherry hemangiomas or residual redness, we incorporate Advanced Vascular Lasers (such as Pulsed-Dye Laser) that utilize specific wavelengths to target the hemoglobin in the blood. This energy converts to heat, cauterizing the vessel without damaging the surrounding healthy skin, allowing the body to naturally resorb the lesion.
Hemangioma Treatment Options
- Beta-blockers (Infantile)
- Vascular Laser (Pulsed-Dye Laser)
- Electrosurgery
- Clinical Observation
Hemangiomas FAQ
Clinical answers from our board-certified dermatologists.
While many infantile hemangiomas eventually “involute” (fade) by age 5 to 10, the process can leave behind residual scarring, fatty tissue, or telangiectasia (visible vessels). Early clinical evaluation at Inverness Dermatology is vital to determine if proactive treatment is needed to prevent permanent skin changes or functional issues.
No, cherry hemangiomas are entirely benign vascular growths. However, because they can resemble other pigmented lesions, any new or rapidly changing “red spot” should be evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist to rule out more serious conditions like nodular melanoma or pyogenic granuloma.
We utilize advanced vascular lasers equipped with integrated cooling systems. Most patients describe the sensation as a quick “rubber band snap.” For pediatric patients, we prioritize the most gentle and efficient clinical protocols to ensure a stress-free experience.
The development of cherry hemangiomas is largely driven by genetics and the natural aging process of the vascular system. While they are not harmful, a sudden “eruption” of many lesions can occasionally be linked to systemic changes, and a clinical skin check is recommended to establish a baseline.
