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

• Microvenular Haemangioma

What is Microvenular Hemangioma? (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
• Microvenular Hemangioma is an uncommon type of hemangioma that may develop in children or adults. It occurs as an asymptomatic solitary skin lesion with a bright red appearance in most cases
• The cause for development of Microvenular Hemangioma is not yet well understood. Some researchers have proposed that they may be influenced by hormonal factors (such as contraceptives or pregnancy)
• While Microvenular Hemangiomas are generally asymptomatic, they may be treated for cosmetic purposes. The treatment options include removal of the tumor through surgery
• The prognosis of Microvenular Hemangioma is typically excellent with adequate treatment

Who gets Microvenular Hemangioma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Microvenular Hemangiomas can occur at any age; both children and adults may be present with this skin lesion
• 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 Microvenular Hemangioma? (Predisposing Factors)

• The risk factors that contribute to Microvenular Hemangioma development remain unknown
• Very infrequently, individuals with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome have been observed with this lesion (isolated cases). More correlation studies are necessary to assess, if the syndrome is a definitive risk factor

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 Microvenular Hemangioma? (Etiology)

• The exact cause for development of Microvenular Hemangioma is unknown. It is an acquired condition, meaning it develops after birth
• However, some scientists have proposed that hormonal contraceptives including factors, such as pregnancy, may contribute towards tumor development. But, this has not been conclusively established

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Microvenular Hemangioma?

Microvenular Hemangiomas are generally asymptomatic and do not present any significant signs and symptoms.

• The hemangiomas are slow-growing and can reach up to 2 cm in sizes; smaller ones are about 0.5 cm in size
• Superficial hemangiomas appear as single, bright red spots on the skin, with well-defined borders
• Microvenular Hemangiomas may be present anywhere on the body, at a superficial location
• Most commonly, these skin lesions are present on the forearms (upper extremities); other uncommon locations may include the lower extremities, chest and back, and the face
• Sometimes, these benign tumors may rupture and bleed, if they are injured

How is Microvenular Hemangioma Diagnosed?

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

• 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
• Skin biopsy: A 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
• Skin or tissue biopsies may be performed to diagnose hemangioma and to rule-out other conditions. The pathology reports can help in distinguishing it from other types of hemangiomas

Note: A differential diagnosis to exclude Kaposi sarcoma (a highly malignant tumor) may have to be undertaken.

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 Microvenular Hemangioma?

• The only significant complication of Microvenular Hemangioma is bleeding from the hemangioma following an injury
• In some individuals, it may present cosmetic (appearance) issues, especially if the tumors are present on the face or head and neck region

How is Microvenular Hemangioma Treated?

Microvenular Hemangiomas are generally asymptomatic and therefore may not require any treatment. In case of frequent bleeding or cosmetic issues related to physical appearance, individuals may choose to remove them.

Procedures for removing a hemangioma may include:

• Burning (electrosurgery/cautery)
• Freezing (cryotherapy)
• Laser excision
• Surgical excision and removal

How can Microvenular Hemangioma be Prevented?

Currently there are no specific methods or preventative techniques for the formation of Microvenular Hemangiomas.

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

• Microvenular Hemangiomas are benign and generally asymptomatic. Also, no complications are typically seen to arise from these lesions
• The prognosis is usually excellent with adequate surgical treatment

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Microvenular Hemangioma:

Individuals with POEMS syndrome may reveal tumors that are exactly similar to Microvenular Hemangiomas.