What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Cavernoma
• Cavernous Angioma
• Cavernous Malformation

What is Cavernous Hemangioma? (Definition/Background Information)

• Hemangiomas are benign malformation of blood vessels that can occur in a number of tissues such as the brain, kidney, liver, lung, skin, and nasal cavity
• Cavernous Hemangiomas are benign growths composed of small blood vessels that occur on skin tissues, anywhere in the body, usually in children. These benign tumors can sometimes rupture and bleed if injured
• The cause for development of the condition is not yet well understood. Some studies though, show a genetic component
• While Cavernous Hemangiomas are generally asymptomatic, they may be treated for cosmetic purposes, or in case of severe and chronic bleeding. The treatment options include removal of the tumor. The prognosis of the condition depends upon the tumor location; typically, superficially located ones have better outcomes

Who gets Cavernous Hemangioma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Cavernous Hemangiomas are most common in young children, though they may be found in adults too
• It can affect individuals of all races, ethnic backgrounds, and genders across the world

What are the Risk Factors for Cavernous Hemangioma? (Predisposing Factors)

The following risk factors contribute to Cavernous Hemangioma development:

• Individuals with a positive family history are more likely to develop the condition
• Cavernous Hemangiomas are known to be associated with rare bleeding conditions, namely Kasabach-Merritt syndrome and blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Cavernous Hemangioma? (Etiology)

• The exact cause for development of Cavernous Hemangiomas is unknown
• Since family history is an important risk factor, it may be caused by genetic mutations that are yet to be well-characterized

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cavernous Hemangioma?

Cavernous Hemangiomas are generally asymptomatic and do not present any signs and symptoms.

• They are generally observed in deep locations (mostly in the liver) than superficially (on the skin). However, these hemangiomas may be present anywhere on the body
• They may not be well-defined, and can range in size from small to big
• On the skin, they may appear as small, cherry-red papules
• Sometimes, these benign tumors may rupture and bleed, if they are injured

How is Cavernous Hemangioma Diagnosed?

A diagnosis for Cavernous Hemangioma includes evaluating the clinical history (physical exam) and a thorough family history. Other tools to help diagnose the condition may include:

• A visual assessment by the physician can help diagnose the condition
• CT and MRI scan of the affected region: Deep-seated tumors may be incidentally discovered during imaging for other reasons
• If necessary, skin or tissue biopsies may be performed to diagnose hemangioma and to rule-out other conditions

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Cavernous Hemangioma?

The complications of Cavernous Hemangiomas may include:

• Bleeding following an injury or trauma: If they are associated with rare, bleeding disorders, such as Kasabach-Merritt syndrome and blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome
• Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome is a condition of multiple Cavernous Hemangiomas of the skin and gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which can lead to severe internal (GI) bleeding
• If large tumors involve the internal organs, it may affect their proper function
• Damage to vital nerves, blood vessels, and surrounding structures during surgery to remove the tumor

How is Cavernous Hemangioma Treated?

Some Cavernous Hemangiomas may be asymptomatic and therefore may not require any treatment.

• In case of frequent bleeding or cosmetic issues related to physical appearance, individuals may choose to remove them
• Besides, these hemangioma types do not typically respond to medical therapy and hence surgery is the preferred treatment option
• Arterial embolization of the tumor is used to provide temporary relief from the symptoms, and reduce blood loss during ‘tumor removal’ surgical procedure
• Post-operative care is important: One must maintain minimum activity levels, until the surgical wound heals
• Post-operative follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important, especially to monitor for any recurrences

Procedures for removing a Cavernous Hemangioma may include:

• Burning (electrosurgery/cautery)
• Freezing (cryotherapy)
• Laser excision
• Surgical excision

How can Cavernous Hemangioma be Prevented?

• Currently there are no specific methods or preventative techniques for the formation of Cavernous Hemangiomas. The condition may be caused by genetic factors
• If there is a family history of the condition, then genetic counseling will help assess risks, before planning for a child
• Active research is currently being performed to explore the possibilities for treatment and prevention of inherited and acquired genetic disorders

What is the Prognosis of Cavernous Hemangioma? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Cavernous Hemangiomas are noncancerous and may be asymptomatic. However, they have a tendency to bleed, if they rupture, and the prognosis depends upon the hemangioma location
• Tumors that are located in the superficial regions (such as the skin) have excellent prognosis with complete removal of the hemangioma
• The prognosis is also based on the underlying bleeding disorder, if any present
• Removal of the hemangioma does not usually lead to scarring

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Cavernous Hemangioma:

Cavernous Hemangiomas are usually larger than capillary hemangiomas and unlike them, are usually confined to a deep location than a superficial location. Cavernous Hemangiomas are also not as well-defined as capillary hemangiomas, and their vascular spaces are much larger than capillary hemangiomas; hence the usage of the term ‘cavernous’.