Should Childhood Hemangiomas Be Removed?

Hearing that your child has a hemangioma can be concerning, especially when the mark appears suddenly and grows quickly. Hemangiomas are common vascular birthmarks made up of extra blood vessels that cluster together in the skin. At Kayal Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists, we help families understand when these growths are harmless and when treatment may be recommended.

Hemangiomas are often referred to as “strawberry birthmarks” because of their bright red, raised appearance. They can also appear bluish if they form deeper under the skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hemangiomas occur in about 5 to 10 percent of infants, making them one of the most common childhood skin growths.

What Causes Hemangiomas?

The exact cause of hemangiomas is not fully understood, but they are believed to develop from an overgrowth of blood vessels. They are more common in premature infants, babies with low birth weight, and females. Most hemangiomas are not visible at birth but appear within the first few weeks of life.

These growths typically go through phases. During the first year, they often grow rapidly. After that, they usually enter a gradual shrinking phase, called involution. Many hemangiomas significantly fade or flatten by age 5 to 10 without any intervention.

When Is Treatment Necessary?

In many cases, hemangiomas do not require removal or treatment. If they are small, not causing symptoms, and located in areas that do not interfere with normal function, monitoring may be all that is needed.

However, treatment may be recommended if:

• The hemangioma is located near the eyes, nose, or mouth
• It interferes with vision, breathing, or feeding
• Sores or ulcerations develop
• There is a risk of scarring or infection
• The growth causes pain or bleeding

Hemangiomas in sensitive areas are more likely to cause complications. Ulcerated hemangiomas, which form open sores, can be painful and increase the risk of infection. In these situations, early treatment can prevent further problems.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Fortunately, many hemangiomas can be treated without surgery. Corticosteroid medications are commonly used to reduce inflammation and slow growth. These may be administered orally or applied topically, depending on the size and location of the lesion.

Medical gels, including certain prescription topical treatments, are also effective in many cases. These options help shrink the hemangioma gradually and reduce redness.

Laser treatment is another effective option, particularly when there are no additional complications involved. Laser therapy can target the blood vessels within the hemangioma and improve appearance while minimizing damage to surrounding skin.

When Is Surgery Considered?

In more severe or complex cases, surgical intervention may be the best course of action. This is typically reserved for hemangiomas that do not respond to other treatments or that cause significant functional or cosmetic concerns.

At Kayal Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists, we offer both non-surgical and surgical treatment options. Our team carefully evaluates each child’s unique situation and helps families decide which course of treatment is most appropriate.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If your child has a hemangioma and you are unsure whether treatment is needed, the specialists at Kayal Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists are here to help. Contact our Marietta office today to schedule a consultation and discuss the safest, most effective treatment options for your child.