VASCULAR TUMORS AND MALFORMATIONS IN CHILDREN
Introduction
In this issue of Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, we have compiled up-to-date reviews by many well-known experts in the field. This includes a thorough discussion of infantile hemangiomas, potential complications, and associated structural anomalies. Other manuscripts are dedicated to the genetic basis of vascular anomalies and overgrowth syndromes. Rare vascular tumors, malformations, and an in-depth examination of histopathology are also included. Finally, manuscripts outlining the clinical conundrum of multifocal vascular anomalies and potential mimickers are discussed.
Vascular tumors and malformations in Children, Introduction
Over the past decade, I have been amazed at the growth in the field of vascular anomalies. The recognition of vascular birthmarks as a definned area of medicine is a relatively recent event.
Infantile hemangiomas, complications and treatments
Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are the most common vascular tumors of infancy. While the majority regress without the need for intervention, approximately 10%, often site dependent, can cause serious complications and require treatment.
Infantile hemangiomas and structural anomalies: PHACE and LUMBAR syndrome
In a subset of patients, infantile hemangiomas may be associated with structural anomalies.
Congenital hemangiomas
Congenital hemangiomas are rare solitary vascular tumors that do not proliferate after birth. They are characterized as either rapidly involuting congenital hemangiomas (RICHs) or noninvoluting congenital hemangiomas (NICHs) based on their clinical progression. NICHs have no associated complications, but are persistent.
Genetic basis for vascular anomalies
The impressive, accelerated pace of genetic discovery over the last decade promises to clarify the historically challenging classification and understanding of vascular anomalies. Confusion has persisted because of the rarity and polymorphous clinical presentation of vascular anomalies and inconsistent use of terminology.