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

• Haemangioma of Breast
• Mammary Haemangioma
• Mammary Hemangioma

What is Hemangioma of Breast? (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
• Hemangioma of Breast is a benign malformation occurring in the breast. It is observed in a wide age range and both children and adults (of both genders) are affected
• Based upon the size of the vascular spaces, Breast Hemangiomas are classified as:
  • Venous Hemangioma of Breast: It is a kind of rare, benign tumor involving the blood vessels, where the mass of vessels are present consisting of veins
  • Capillary Hemangioma of Breast: It is a well-defined hemangioma with smaller vascular spaces and blood vessel nodules
  • Cavernous Hemangioma of Breast: It is a benign tumor composed of a large pool of blood vessels. These benign tumors can sometimes rupture and bleed if injured. It is the most common of the 3 types
• The cause of Hemangioma of Breast is unknown, but the risk factors may include hemangiomas at other locations in the body such as the intestine or liver
• The signs and symptoms of Hemangioma of Breast may rarely include the presence of a mass in the breast. Most lesions are small and asymptomatic; in many cases, an incidental discovery of the hemangioma is made through radiological imaging studies
• Hemangioma of Breast is treated through a surgical excision, per the healthcare provider’s recommendation, when necessary. The prognosis is excellent with its complete removal, since it is a benign tumor. However, periodic checkups and screening mammograms are advised

Who gets Hemangioma of Breast? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Hemangioma of Breast represents approximately 10% of all benign breast tumor types
• These benign malformations are known to occur in infants (age over 1 year) to elderly adults, who are over 80 years old
• The age of presentation of Hemangioma of Breast is usually between 30-50 years; though it can be seen at any age
• Breast Hemangiomas can affect individuals of all races, ethnic backgrounds, and gender (males and females)

What are the Risk Factors for Hemangioma of Breast? (Predisposing Factors)

The specific risk factors for Hemangioma of Breast may include:

• Hemangiomas at other locations such as the bowel, liver, skin, or brain

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 Hemangioma of Breast? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of development of Hemangioma of Breast is currently not clearly understood
• Certain gene mutations have also been reported in the tumors. Research is being performed to determine how these mutations contribute to the formation of the tumors

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Hemangioma of Breast?

Most cases of Hemangioma of Breast may not exhibit any signs and symptoms. In some cases, the following may be observed:

• The presence of well-defined hemangiomas that are about 5-20 mm in size; cavernous hemangiomas may grow to large sizes
• The lesions may not be generally felt due to their small size, but may be incidentally detected through imaging studies
• Typically, only one breast is affected
• The tumor is generally painless

How is Hemangioma of Breast Diagnosed?

Hemangioma of Breast may be diagnosed in the following manner:

• Complete physical examination with comprehensive medical and family history evaluation
• Breast exam to check for any lumps or unusual signs in the breasts
• Mammogram: A mammogram uses x-rays to provide images of the breast. These benign tumors are identified as a mammogram mass, which may or may not be associated with microcalcification. The mammography findings may raise enough suspicion to warrant a tissue biopsy
• Breast ultrasound scan: Using high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the breast, the type of tumor, whether fluid-filled cyst or solid mass type, may be identified
• Computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the breast
• Breast biopsy:
  • A biopsy of the tumor is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. A 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. Examination of the biopsy under a microscope by a pathologist is considered to be gold standard in arriving at a conclusive diagnosis
  • Biopsy specimens are studied initially using Hematoxylin and Eosin staining. The pathologist then decides on additional studies depending on the clinical situation
  • Sometimes, the pathologist may perform additional studies, which may include immunohistochemical stains and molecular studies to assist in the diagnosis

Biopsies are the only methods used to determine whether an abnormality is benign or cancerous. These are performed by inserting a needle into a breast mass and removing cells or tissues, for further examination. There are different types of biopsies:

• Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of breast mass: In this method, a very thin needle is used to remove a small amount of tissue. FNAB cannot help definitively diagnose Hemangioma of Breast. It only helps determine if the tumor is malignant or benign. This can help the healthcare provider discuss and plan the next steps (with respect to diagnosis and treatment)
• Core needle biopsy of breast mass: A wider needle is used to withdraw a small cylinder of tissue from an abnormal area of the breast
• Open tissue biopsy of breast mass: A surgical procedure used less often than needle biopsies, it is used to remove a part or all of a breast lump for analysis

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 Hemangioma of Breast?

There may not be any significant complications of Hemangioma of Breast.

• However, in some cases, the condition may cause emotional stress due to concerns of a malignancy
• Recurrence of the tumor following treatment is generally not observed

How is Hemangioma of Breast Treated?

The following treatment methods for Hemangioma of Breast may be considered:

• A ‘wait and watch’ approach may be considered for asymptomatic hemangiomas
• A simple surgical excision and removal of the entire Hemangioma of Breast is normally sufficient treatment
  • The surgical procedure performed is known as a breast lumpectomy. It is a surgical procedure to remove the breast lump, which may be done under a general anesthetic
  • During the surgery, a small incision is made in the skin of the breast and a hollow probe that is connected to a vacuum, inserted
  • The breast tissue is sucked through the probe, using vacuum, until the lump has been removed
• Follow-up care with frequent breast self-examinations and screening mammograms may be recommended by the healthcare provider

How can Hemangioma of Breast be Prevented?

The development of Hemangioma of Breast is difficult to prevent. Currently, no specific preventive measures are available to avoid Mammary Hemangioma.

In general, however, it is important to be aware of certain risk factors for breast tumors, which include:

• The individual must regularly conduct breast self-exams, to ensure that no lumps are present
• Maintain a healthy body weight and exercise regularly
• Implement and follow a well-balanced diet; a high intake of fiber via fresh fruits and vegetables helps in a healthy lifestyle
• Avoid or completely stop smoking
• Drink alcohol in moderation; limit to one or (maximum) two drinks a day
• Limit combination hormone therapy used to treat symptoms of menopause. It is advised that individuals be aware of the potential benefits and risks of hormone therapy

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

• The prognosis of Hemangioma of Breast is generally excellent following treatment. The risk of tumor recurrence is insignificant
• Generally, benign vascular tumors do not cause significant signs and symptoms. However, close monitoring may be necessary since malignant vascular tumors have significant signs and symptoms. Appearance of significant signs and symptoms might indicate the presence of a malignant vascular tumor (such as a well-differentiated angiosarcoma)
• Periodic follow-up check-ups with screening is required

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Hemangioma of Breast:

The following DoveMed website links are useful resources for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/womens-health/

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/