Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Apollo Hospital, suggests that knowing how these growths develop, recognising warning signs, and understanding available treatment options can help parents seek timely medical care and support their baby's health.
What is an Infantile Haemangioma?
An infantile haemangioma is a non-cancerous growth formed by an abnormal collection of blood vessels. It may not be visible at birth but usually appears during the first few weeks of life. These growths are more common in girls, premature babies, and infants with low birth weight. Infantile haemangiomas can develop anywhere in the body, including the face, scalp, neck, back, and limbs. Their appearance depends on how deeply the blood vessels grow into the skin.Common types include:
- Superficial haemangiomas: Bright red, raised marks on the skin
- Deep haemangiomas: Bluish or skin-coloured swellings beneath the skin
- Mixed haemangiomas: Growths with both superficial and deeper components
What Causes Infantile Haemangiomas?
The exact cause of infantile haemangiomas is not fully understood. They develop when blood vessels grow and multiply more rapidly than usual in a particular area. This growth is not caused by anything parents did or did not do during pregnancy.Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing a haemangioma, including:
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Female gender
Infantile haemangiomas typically appear within the first few weeks after birth, grow rapidly during the first few months, and gradually slow before entering a natural regression phase.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch for
Parents may notice the following signs in their babies:- A bright red, raised area on the skin
- A soft, bluish swelling beneath the skin
- Rapid enlargement during the first few months
- A raised or uneven skin surface
- Occasional bleeding or ulceration if the skin breaks down
How is Infantile Haemangioma Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose infantile haemangiomas through physical examination and selected investigations when needed. The following tests may help confirm the diagnosis and identify possible complications:- Physical examination: Assesses the growth's size, colour, location, and appearance
- Medical history: The doctor will review when the lesion appeared and how quickly it has grown
- Ultrasound with Doppler: Evaluates blood flow and the depth of the growth
- MRI: This helps the doctor examine deep or complex haemangiomas and nearby structures
- Blood tests: May be recommended if complications are suspected
- Eye examination: Checks vision when the growth is near the eye
Treatment Options for Infantile Haemangioma
The majority of haemangiomas in infants usually do not require any intervention since they undergo natural shrinkage. Nevertheless, evaluation should occur early on to determine the impact of the haemangioma on vision, breathing, feeding, and overall development.The treatment option is chosen based on the size, location, and the rate of growth of the haemangioma. Dr Sushma K suggests the following treatment options:
- Monitoring: Continuous assessment by a medical specialist is done to track the progress of the haemangioma
- Beta-blockers: Orally administered propranolol is prescribed for those haemangiomas with complications, as well as timolol, typically applied in selected cases
- Laser therapy: This method can help treat some cases of surface blood vessels and remaining skin changes
- Surgical operation: This is applicable but only in severe cases where the haemangioma has caused some adverse impact; changes need to be corrected
When Should Parents Seek Medical Attention?
Prompt medical assessment is important if a haemangioma:- Grows rapidly or develops an open sore
- Bleeds repeatedly or appears infected
- Is near the eye, nose, mouth, or airway
- Interferes with feeding, breathing, or vision
- Appears alongside multiple other haemangiomas
Can Infantile Haemangiomas be Prevented?
Infantile haemangiomas cannot currently be prevented because their exact cause is not fully understood. They are not caused by anything parents do during pregnancy. However, early medical assessment can help identify high-risk haemangiomas and ensure timely treatment to prevent complications and support healthy development.Infantile haemangiomas are prevalent non-cancerous lesions or growths that often resolve spontaneously. However, their position, size, and growth may influence the decision to treat. Parents should keep an eye on newly developed skin lesions and seek appropriate medical help if they start expanding quickly, bleeding, or interfering with significant body functions. With an adequate care plan, the majority of babies with infantile haemangiomas can be treated successfully.
FAQs on Infantile Haemangioma: What Parents Need to Know
- Can infantile haemangiomas leave scars after shrinking?
Yes, infantile haemangiomas may leave scars or skin changes after shrinking. These can include loose skin, small blood vessels, or changes in skin colour. The likelihood depends on the growth's size, depth, and whether ulceration occurred. - Is infantile haemangioma a hereditary condition?
Infantile haemangioma is generally not considered a hereditary condition. Although genetic factors may influence its development, most cases occur without a family history. Having a parent or sibling with haemangioma does not necessarily mean a baby will develop one. - Can infantile haemangioma develop into cancer?
No, infantile haemangiomas are benign growths and do not turn into cancer. However, other conditions can sometimes resemble haemangiomas. Parents should consult a paediatrician if a skin growth changes unexpectedly, grows unusually, or causes bleeding or other concerns.