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

• CVMs (Capillary Vascular Malformations)

What is Capillary Vascular Malformations? (Definition/Background Information)

• Capillary Vascular Malformations (CVMs) are benign skin conditions that manifest as red birthmarks. As the name suggests, CVMs are caused by the malformation of small blood vessels beneath the skin
• However, Capillary Vascular Malformations are not caused by the proliferation of melanocytes. CVMs are also referred to as telangiectatic nevi
• There are two common types of Capillary Vascular Malformations:
  • Salmon patch (also known as nevus simplex)
  • Port-wine stain (also known as nevus flammeus)
• Salmon patches are more common than port-wine stains. Salmon patches are also known to completely disappear in about 12 months’ time unlike port-wine stains that generally persist throughout one’s life
• Capillary Vascular Malformations are benign growths that may occur in any part of the body, but most are found on the face or head and neck region. They do not present any significant symptoms or complications
• Generally, no treatment is necessary for these skin conditions. But, if required, Capillary Vascular Malformations are occasionally treated for cosmetic purposes using laser therapy

Who gets Capillary Vascular Malformations? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Capillary Vascular Malformations are frequently present at birth, in a vast majority of cases
• Both males and females are affected
• It may be observed in individuals of all races and ethnic backgrounds across the world

What are the Risk Factors for Capillary Vascular Malformations? (Predisposing Factors)

• In general, no risk factors have been reported for the development of Capillary Vascular Malformations
• Rarely, port-wine stains are associated with certain genetic disorders that include Klippel-Trénaunay-Weber syndrome, Sturge-Weber syndrome, and Parkes-Weber 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 Capillary Vascular Malformations? (Etiology)

• The exact cause for development of Capillary Vascular Malformations is unknown. They are known to occur from malformed and dilated blood vessels under the skin, leading to red-purple skin discoloration
• Capillary Vascular Malformations are also referred to as flat hemangiomas, due to their characteristic appearance
• Occasionally, port-wine stains are observed in the presence of certain genetic disorders. Mutation on the GNAQ and RASA1 genes have also been reported in them

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Capillary Vascular Malformations?

Capillary Vascular Malformations are generally asymptomatic and do not present any significant signs and symptoms.

• Presence of an irregular flat patch on skin of varied sizes; some are small, while a few may grow to large sizes
• The skin patches or moles may have well-defined or poorly-defined borders and are red to pink in color
• Capillary Vascular Malformations may occur at any site of the body. Most of these benign skin growths are observed on the face and head and neck area
• Salmon patches are known to disappear within 12 months, while port-wine stains grow and persist into adulthood

How is Capillary Vascular Malformations Diagnosed?

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

• A visual assessment by the physician, which can help diagnose the condition in most cases
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Imaging studies and other tests, to rule out Klippel-Trénaunay-Weber syndrome or Sturge-Weber syndrome, if required
• If necessary, skin biopsies may be performed 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 Capillary Vascular Malformations?

No significant complications are generally reported from Capillary Vascular Malformations.

• In some children and adults, it may present cosmetic (appearance) issues
• Birthmarks around the face or eye may cause psychological stress in some individuals

How is Capillary Vascular Malformations Treated?

• Capillary Vascular Malformations are generally asymptomatic and do not require any treatment. Some are even known to disappear completely
• If necessary, the birthmark or mole may be removed using pulsed dye laser therapy

How can Capillary Vascular Malformations be Prevented?

Currently, there are no specific methods to prevent the formation of Capillary Vascular Malformations.

What is the Prognosis of Capillary Vascular Malformations? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

Capillary Vascular Malformations are non-cancerous and generally asymptomatic.

• Salmon patches are known to disappear spontaneously after about a year
• Port-wine stains may persist throughout an individual’s life, in many cases

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Capillary Vascular Malformations:

Please visit our Skin Care Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/skin-disorders/