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

• Gastric Hemangioma

What is Hemangioma of Stomach? (Definition/Background Information)

• Hemangiomas are benign accumulations of blood vessels, which can occur in several tissues such as the brain, kidney, liver, lung, skin (cherry), and nasal cavity
• Hemangioma of Stomach is a very rare benign vascular tumor that forms in the stomach. It is mostly observed in adult men and women
• The cause of formation and risk factors for Hemangioma of Stomach are unknown. It is believed to abnormally arise during fetal growth and development
• Most small tumors are asymptomatic and painless, though the larger ones may compress the surrounding structures and cause related signs and symptoms
• Hemangioma of Stomach may be diagnosed by evaluating the clinical history and a thorough physical exam, followed by imaging studies, such as CT and MRI scans of the chest/abdominal region
• The treatment techniques for tumors causing significant symptoms may include removal through endoscopic surgery. The prognosis of Hemangioma of Stomach is good with appropriate treatment. In some cases, the healthcare provider may recommend a ‘wait and watch’ approach to monitor the tumor

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

• Hemangioma of Stomach is a rare tumor that is mostly observed in adults
• Both males and females are known to be affected
• No racial or ethnic predilection is observed

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

Currently, no definitive risk factors are known for Hemangioma of Stomach. However, in some rare cases, an association with the following genetic disorders is noted:

• Blue rubber bleb nevus
• Osler-Rendu-Weber disease

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 Hemangioma of Stomach? (Etiology)

• Currently, there are no identified causes for the development of Hemangioma of Stomach
• Researchers believe that it could develop as a malformation during fetal development

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Hemangioma of Stomach?

Some small-sized Hemangiomas of Stomach may not cause any significant symptoms and are detected incidentally. In others, the following signs and symptoms may be noted:

• Most tumors are small and present on the surface of the stomach
• Some tumors can grow to very large sizes
• The tumors are typically solitary and soft
• Some hemangiomas can bleed and lead to complications
• Blood in stool

An isolated case of an epithelioid hemangioma involving the stomach artery has been described in the medical literature.

How is Hemangioma of Stomach Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Hemangioma of Stomach would involve:

• Complete physical exam with evaluation of medical history
• Ultrasound scan of the stomach/abdomen: It is a non-invasive procedure that uses high frequency sound waves to produce real-time images
• Abdominal CT scan: It is a noninvasive procedure that provides more details of soft tissues, blood vessels, and internal organs
• Stool sample analysis
• Upper GI endoscopy: An endoscopic procedure is performed using an instrument called an endoscope, which consists of a thin tube and a camera. Using this technique, the radiologist can have a thorough examination of the insides of the gastrointestinal tract
• Chromoendoscopy can help detect small-sized tumors; small tumors can also be detected using narrow band imaging technique
• Endoscopic ultrasonography: During this procedure, fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) can be performed on the affected area. This is good technique for tumor detection, including tumor invasion parameters, and whether nearby lymph nodes are affected
• Vascular angiographic studies of the tumor
• Exploratory laparoscopy (diagnostic laparoscopy) may be required, if gastrointestinal symptoms are present. In this procedure, the abdomen is examined using a minimally-invasive technique, and a tissue biopsy and tissue for culture obtained

Although the above modalities can be used to make an initial diagnosis, a tissue biopsy of the tumor is necessary to make a definitive diagnosis to begin treatment. The tissue for diagnosis can be procured in multiple different ways which include:

• Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of the tumor: A FNA biopsy may not be helpful, because one may not be able to visualize the different morphological areas of the tumor and the tumor may be misdiagnosed. Hence, a FNA biopsy as a diagnostic tool has certain limitations, and an open surgical biopsy is preferred
• Core biopsy of the tumor
• Open biopsy of the tumor

Tissue biopsy:

• A tissue 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 special studies, which may include immunohistochemical stains, molecular testing, and very rarely, electron microscopic studies to assist in the 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 Hemangioma of Stomach?

The complications of Hemangioma of Stomach are normally rare; but in some cases, large tumors may cause the following complications:

• Large-sized tumors may compress adjoining tissues and structures resulting in additional complications
• Ulceration and bleeding
• Damage to the muscles, vital nerves, and blood vessels, during surgery
• Post-surgical infection at the wound site is a potential complication

How is Hemangioma of Stomach Treated?

Due to the benign (non-cancerous) nature of Hemangioma of Stomach, small-sized tumors do not generally require any treatment. However, they may be removed to confirm the diagnosis.

• In some cases, the healthcare provider may recommend a ‘wait and watch’ approach for small-sized tumors
• A complete surgical resection of the tumor (endoscopic polypectomy) is usually curative. It is normally undertaken when significant symptoms are observed
• Arterial embolization of the tumor may be used to provide temporary relief from the symptoms, and reduce blood loss during ‘tumor removal’ surgical procedure
• Radiation therapy may be planned on a case-by-case basis, when necessary
• Post-operative care is important: One must maintain minimum activity levels, until the surgical wound heals
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important

How can Hemangioma of Stomach be Prevented?

• Current medical research has not established a method of preventing the formation of Hemangioma of Stomach
• Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with blood tests, radiological scans, and physical examinations, for those who have already endured the tumor, are helpful

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

• The prognosis of Hemangioma of Stomach is typically good with adequate treatment; a full recovery is often ensured and no long-term complications are noted
• Endoscopic surgery is the most reliable treatment tool to completely remove the tumor and prevent any tumor recurrences

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Hemangioma of Stomach:

The following article link will help you understand other cancers and benign tumors:

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