Vascular anomaly: Difference between revisions

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{{Short description|A group of disorders involving abnormal blood vessels or lymph vessels}}
{{Short description|Overview of vascular anomalies}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}


'''Vascular anomaly''' refers to a group of disorders characterized by abnormal development of blood vessels or lymphatic vessels. These anomalies can be broadly classified into vascular tumors and vascular malformations. They can occur anywhere in the body and vary widely in their clinical presentation, prognosis, and treatment.
'''Vascular anomalies''' are a group of disorders characterized by abnormal growth or formation of blood vessels. These anomalies can be broadly classified into two categories: vascular tumors and vascular malformations. Each type has distinct clinical features, management strategies, and prognoses.


==Classification==
==Classification==
Vascular anomalies are generally classified into two main categories:
Vascular anomalies are classified based on their biological behavior and clinical presentation. The two main categories are:


===Vascular Tumors===
===Vascular Tumors===
Vascular tumors are characterized by increased endothelial cell turnover. The most common type is the [[hemangioma]], which typically appears shortly after birth, grows rapidly, and then involutes over time. Other types include [[pyogenic granuloma]] and [[Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma]].
Vascular tumors are characterized by endothelial cell proliferation. The most common type is the [[hemangioma]], which typically appears in infancy and may resolve spontaneously over time. Other types include [[pyogenic granuloma]] and [[Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma]].
 
[[File:Pyogenic_Granuloma_Thumb_1.JPG|thumb|right|Pyogenic granuloma on the thumb]]


===Vascular Malformations===
===Vascular Malformations===
Vascular malformations are present at birth and grow proportionately with the child. They are further classified based on the type of vessel involved:
Vascular malformations are structural anomalies of blood vessels that are present at birth and grow proportionately with the child. They do not exhibit the rapid growth phase seen in vascular tumors. Vascular malformations are further classified based on the type of vessel involved:
 
* '''Capillary malformations''': Commonly known as [[port-wine stain]]s, these are flat, pink, or red marks that can occur anywhere on the body.
* '''Venous malformations''': These are soft, compressible masses that can occur in any part of the body.
* '''Lymphatic malformations''': These are caused by abnormal development of the lymphatic system and can lead to swelling and fluid accumulation.
 
[[File:Lymphangioma.jpg|thumb|left|Lymphangioma]]


* '''Capillary malformations''': Commonly known as port-wine stains.
* '''Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)''': These involve abnormal connections between arteries and veins, bypassing the capillary system.
* '''Venous malformations''': Abnormal veins that can cause pain and swelling.
* '''Lymphatic malformations''': Abnormal lymph vessels, which can lead to swelling and fluid accumulation.
* '''Arteriovenous malformations''': Abnormal connections between arteries and veins, which can lead to bleeding and other complications.


==Diagnosis==
==Diagnosis==
Diagnosis of vascular anomalies typically involves a combination of clinical examination, imaging studies such as [[ultrasound]], [[MRI]], and sometimes [[biopsy]]. The specific type of anomaly often dictates the diagnostic approach.
The diagnosis of vascular anomalies typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and sometimes biopsy. Imaging techniques such as [[ultrasound]], [[MRI]], and [[CT scan]]s are commonly used to assess the extent and nature of the anomaly.


==Treatment==
==Management==
Treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the vascular anomaly. Options include:
The management of vascular anomalies depends on the type and severity of the condition. Treatment options may include:


* '''Observation''': Many hemangiomas resolve spontaneously without intervention.
* '''Observation''': Many vascular anomalies, especially hemangiomas, may not require treatment and can be monitored over time.
* '''Medical therapy''': Medications such as [[propranolol]] are used for certain hemangiomas.
* '''Medical therapy''': Medications such as [[beta-blockers]] (e.g., propranolol) are used to treat certain types of hemangiomas.
* '''Sclerotherapy''': Injection of a sclerosing agent to shrink the malformation.
* '''Surgical intervention''': Surgery may be necessary for large or symptomatic malformations.
* '''Surgery''': Reserved for cases where other treatments are ineffective or when the anomaly causes significant symptoms.
* '''Laser therapy''': Used primarily for capillary malformations to reduce discoloration.


==Prognosis==
==Prognosis==
The prognosis for individuals with vascular anomalies depends on the type and location of the anomaly. Many hemangiomas resolve without treatment, while some malformations may require ongoing management.
The prognosis for individuals with vascular anomalies varies widely depending on the type and location of the anomaly. While some may resolve spontaneously, others may require ongoing management to prevent complications.


==Related pages==
==Related pages==
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* [[Lymphangioma]]
* [[Lymphangioma]]
* [[Arteriovenous malformation]]
* [[Arteriovenous malformation]]
* [[Port-wine stain]]
[[File:Myhand.jpg|thumb|right|Example of a vascular anomaly on the hand]]


==Gallery==
==See also==
<gallery>
* [[Vascular disease]]
File:Pyogenic_Granuloma_Thumb_1.JPG|Pyogenic granuloma on the thumb
* [[Congenital disorder]]
File:Myhand.jpg|Example of a vascular anomaly on the hand
* [[Angiogenesis]]
File:Lymphangioma.jpg|Lymphangioma
</gallery>


==References==
{{Medical conditions}}
* Mulliken, J. B., & Glowacki, J. (1982). Hemangiomas and vascular malformations in infants and children: a classification based on endothelial characteristics. ''Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery'', 69(3), 412-422.
* Enjolras, O., & Mulliken, J. B. (1997). Vascular tumors and vascular malformations (new issues). ''Advances in Dermatology'', 13, 375-423.


[[Category:Vascular diseases]]
[[Category:Vascular diseases]]
[[Category:Congenital disorders]]
[[Category:Congenital disorders]]
<gallery>
File:Pyogenic_Granuloma_Thumb_1.JPG|Pyogenic Granuloma on Thumb
File:Myhand.jpg|Vascular anomaly on hand
File:Lymphangioma.jpg|Lymphangioma
</gallery>

Latest revision as of 18:50, 23 March 2025

Overview of vascular anomalies



Vascular anomalies are a group of disorders characterized by abnormal growth or formation of blood vessels. These anomalies can be broadly classified into two categories: vascular tumors and vascular malformations. Each type has distinct clinical features, management strategies, and prognoses.

Classification[edit]

Vascular anomalies are classified based on their biological behavior and clinical presentation. The two main categories are:

Vascular Tumors[edit]

Vascular tumors are characterized by endothelial cell proliferation. The most common type is the hemangioma, which typically appears in infancy and may resolve spontaneously over time. Other types include pyogenic granuloma and Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma.

Pyogenic granuloma on the thumb

Vascular Malformations[edit]

Vascular malformations are structural anomalies of blood vessels that are present at birth and grow proportionately with the child. They do not exhibit the rapid growth phase seen in vascular tumors. Vascular malformations are further classified based on the type of vessel involved:

  • Capillary malformations: Commonly known as port-wine stains, these are flat, pink, or red marks that can occur anywhere on the body.
  • Venous malformations: These are soft, compressible masses that can occur in any part of the body.
  • Lymphatic malformations: These are caused by abnormal development of the lymphatic system and can lead to swelling and fluid accumulation.
Lymphangioma
  • Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs): These involve abnormal connections between arteries and veins, bypassing the capillary system.

Diagnosis[edit]

The diagnosis of vascular anomalies typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and sometimes biopsy. Imaging techniques such as ultrasound, MRI, and CT scans are commonly used to assess the extent and nature of the anomaly.

Management[edit]

The management of vascular anomalies depends on the type and severity of the condition. Treatment options may include:

  • Observation: Many vascular anomalies, especially hemangiomas, may not require treatment and can be monitored over time.
  • Medical therapy: Medications such as beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) are used to treat certain types of hemangiomas.
  • Surgical intervention: Surgery may be necessary for large or symptomatic malformations.
  • Laser therapy: Used primarily for capillary malformations to reduce discoloration.

Prognosis[edit]

The prognosis for individuals with vascular anomalies varies widely depending on the type and location of the anomaly. While some may resolve spontaneously, others may require ongoing management to prevent complications.

Related pages[edit]

Example of a vascular anomaly on the hand

See also[edit]