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

• Myxoid Degeneration of Wharton’s Jelly (Angiomyxoma)
• Umbilical Cord Hemangioma

What is Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord? (Definition/Background Information)

• Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord is a benign tumor arising usually from the umbilical artery. Hemangiomas are benign malformation of blood vessels that can occur in a number of tissues (such as the brain, kidney, or skin)
• The placenta is an organ that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall. It is a disc shaped reddish brown structure that connects the fetus to the mother through the umbilical cord
• The umbilical cord contains two umbilical arteries and one umbilical vein, providing a connection between maternal and fetal blood circulation
• The normal function of placenta is to supply nutrients and oxygen to the fetus from the mother’s blood and remove wastes from the fetal body
• Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord is caused by the abnormal proliferation of the umbilical artery that supplies the omphalomesenteric remnant. There are no risk factors associated with it
• There may not be any significant signs and symptoms or complications associated with Hemangiomas of Umbilical Cord, if they are small. A large hemangioma may be associated with hemorrhage within the gestational tract and fetal distress
• There is no specific treatment for Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord, but the prognosis is generally good for small hemangiomas

Who gets Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord may occur in pregnant women of all ages
• Women who are pregnant with both male and female fetuses can be affected
• There is no racial, ethnic, or geographical predilection observed

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

• Currently, no risk factors have been identified for Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord
• Research is being performed to identify the relevant risk factors

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 Umbilical Cord? (Etiology)

• Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord is the result of abnormal proliferation of the umbilical artery that supplies the omphalomesenteric ductal remnant (a connection between the intestines and the yolk sac)
• The condition is not caused by what the expectant mother does or does not do, either prior to or during pregnancy

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord?

A majority of hemangiomas are small and are usually asymptomatic. However, if they are large, then the following signs and symptoms of Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord may be present:

• Excessive bleeding/hemorrhage within the gestational tract resulting in fetal distress
• Decreased blood flow to the fetus

How is Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord may involve:

• A prenatal ultrasound may reveal a hemangioma, if they are large. Focal swelling of the umbilical cord can be observed
• Amniocentesis: An examination of the amniotic fluid may indicate increased alpha fetoprotein levels
• A careful examination of the placenta by a pathologist after birth of the child, to macroscopically (gross visual exam) and microscopically analyze the placental tissue may help establish a 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 Umbilical Cord?

There are no complications associated with small Hemangiomas of Umbilical Cord. If the hemangioma is large, then it can lead to the following complications:

• Fetal distress
• Fetal hydrops (abnormal accumulation of fluid)

How is Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord Treated?

• No specific treatment may be necessary for Hemangiomas of Umbilical Cord that are small in size, since the condition is not associated with any signs and symptoms
• Larger hemangiomas may require treatment and the healthcare provider may decide on the course of action on a case-by-case basis, analyzing all the health issues that are involved
• A careful and periodic monitoring of the pregnancy is necessary, since the presence of Aneurysm of Umbilical Cord is considered to be a high-risk pregnancy

How can Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord be Prevented?

• Currently, there are no definitive methods available to prevent Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord
• However, in order to prevent significant complications, a close monitoring of the developing fetus may be recommended by the healthcare provider

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

• Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord is a benign condition that has an excellent prognosis in a majority of cases
• However, the prognosis depends upon the size of the hemangioma; the larger the hemangioma, the poorer is the prognosis and accompanying complications

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Hemangioma of Umbilical Cord:

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

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-related-disorders/