Vascular Birthmarks Treatments in Pasadena

This is the most common type of vascular birthmark, affecting roughly 1 in 10 children. Most hemangiomas are of the infantile type and tend to go through a well-described cycle of growth followed by involution. The treatment of hemangiomas can range from simple observation to surgical excision. 

Parkes Weber syndrome (PWS) is a rare congenital (present at birth) vascular malformation that typically effects an extremity. They may initially appear similar to Klippel Trenaunay syndrome (KTS). However, the composition of PWS includes arteriovenous malformations (AVM) in addition to abnormal capillary, vein, and lymphatic channels.

Venous malformations are an abnormal conglomeration of veins, similar to varicose veins. They tend to gradually enlarge over time and do not disappear as hemangiomas largely do. These are not particularly dangerous but can produce disfigurement, frequent bouts of pain, and loss of muscle and/or nerve function.

Many people confuse hemangiomas with pyogenic granulomas. They are both benign vascular tumors, but pyogenic granulomas arise from some type of repetitive trauma, such as scratching, and do not disappear on their own. Surgical excision is frequently needed and relatively easy to do. They do not grow back if properly excised.

These vascular malformations are comprised of lymphatic channels. Similar to venous malformations, they can gradually enlarge over time and do not disappear. Some symptoms may include pain, redness, infection and disfigurement in severe cases. Treatment can include sclerotherapy or surgical excision. 

Angiokeratoma is a condition in which small, raised, red or purple lesions appear on the skin, often mistaken for hemangiomas. These benign lesions are the result of capillary proliferations and the thickening of the skin’s keratin layer.

These vascular malformations are frequently referred to as “port wine stains.” They tend to involve skin and produce a deep red or purple coloration. Treatment is largely with pulsed dye laser or IPL. In some cases, capillary malformations may be associated with a larger condition called Sturge-Weber syndrome.

Rarely, vascular tumors can behave more like other soft tissue tumors, in that they can infiltrate tissues and create problems. The symptoms can be quite serious and will require a vascular anomalies expert to intervene… sometimes urgently.

There may be instances when more than one type of tissue is present in a vascular malformation. For example, capillary malformations may be present alongside venous and/or lymphatic malformations. Arteriovenous malformations are another example where abnormal arteries and veins develop together.

Vascular birthmarks are a broad term that encompasses any abnormal development of blood vessels in the skin or internal organs. These conditions can range from mild to severe, depending on the individual case. Vascular anomalies are usually present at birth and may be present for life, though they can often be managed with treatments such as laser therapy or medical interventions.

This syndrome is characterized by simultaneous involvement with capillary, lymphatic, and venous malformations. The symptoms tend to be more severe  than any one of the malformations alone. There is also associated hypertrophy, or enlargement, of one or more involved limbs. Lifelong monitoring and treatment are necessary.