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

• DNH (Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis)

What is Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis (DNH) is a rare and idiopathic condition that is characterized by the presence of vascular tumors (or hemangiomas). The hemangiomas can appear anywhere in the body; numerous, rapidly growing skin hemangiomas are also observed
• Additionally, Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis is associated with widespread hemangiomas that form in several organs of the body, such as the liver, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and brain (including the meninges)
• The condition is treated symptomatically based on the presenting features. The treatment of Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis is generally challenging, In the absence of adequate treatment, DNH is fatal in nearly 90% of the cases

Who gets Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis is a rare congenital disorder. The presentation of symptoms occurs at birth
• Both males and females may be affected
• Worldwide, individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been clearly identified for Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s 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 Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis? (Etiology)

The exact underlying cause of Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis is currently unknown.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis?

The signs and symptoms of Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis may vary from one individual to another, but may generally include:

• Presence of numerous cutaneous hemangiomas (blood vessel malformation manifesting as birthmarks)
• These are often progressive and grow rapidly
• They can be present on the face, scalp, chest, back, and arms and legs
• Hemangiomas may involve the internal organs such as the liver, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and brain. This may result in associated signs and symptoms

How is Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis Diagnosed?

Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:

• Physical examination of the individual and medical history evaluation
• Assessment of the presenting signs and symptoms
• Dermoscopy: Dermoscopy 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
• Radiological imaging studies of the affected regions
• Skin biopsy, if necessary: A skin tissue biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

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 Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis?

The complications of Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis may include:

• Emotional stress from cosmetic concerns
• Congestive heart failure
• Severe dysfunction of vital organs due to tumor formation

Complications may occur with or without treatment, and in some cases, due to treatment also.

How is Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis Treated?

• The treatment for Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis may include systemic corticosteroids and beta-blockers such as propranolol
• In addition, treatment may also be given to manage the signs and symptoms and any complication that develops

Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with tests and physical examinations are recommended.

How can Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis be Prevented?

Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis may not be preventable since it is a congenital disorder of unknown origin with no identified risk factors.

What is the Prognosis of Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis is dependent upon the severity of the signs and symptoms and associated complications
• Without suitable treatment, the condition is known to be fatal in 50-90% of the cases due to internal organ involvement

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Diffuse Neonatal Hemangiomatosis:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rare-disorders/