Hemangiomas are abnormal growths of blood vessels in organs or skin, with two types: capillary and cavernous. Cavernous hemangioma is a benign tumor that can cause cosmetic disturbances and, in severe cases, brain hemorrhages. Diagnosis is done through imaging studies, and treatment options include observation, surgery, and steroids.
Hemangiomas are abnormal accumulations or growths of blood vessels in internal organs or skin. Most hemangiomas occur at birth, while others develop after birth. There are two types of hemangiomas: capillary hemangioma and cavernous hemangioma. A capillary hemangioma is usually seen in the top layer of skin, while a cavernous hemangioma is often found in the deeper layer. Some patients, however, may have both types.
Cavernous hemangioma, also known as cavernoma, occurs less commonly than capillary hemangioma. It is a benign tumor of blood vessels that grows rapidly over time and usually does not shrink. Most cavernous hemangiomas are usually soft to the touch and don’t have much significance. In some cases, however, their presence can become locally destructive and cause cosmetic disturbances.
A cavernous hemangioma usually occurs in the skin along the neck and face area and appears as a reddish raised lesion. When it develops in the brain or liver, the presentation of symptoms generally varies. Seizures, vision changes, reduced facial function, and difficulty swallowing are some of the manifestations of a cavernous hemangioma in the brain. In severe cases it can rupture, cause brain hemorrhages and, if not treated immediately, can even lead to death. Growth of a cavernous hemangioma in the liver usually presents with enlarged liver or hepatomegaly.
The causes for cavernous hemangioma development are still unknown, but genetic predisposition may play a role. The disorder commonly appears in individuals between the ages of 20 and 30, although a small number of cases are seen during birth. Diagnosis is usually performed by pediatricians, doctors who treat children and internists, doctors who treat diseases of adults. Imaging studies such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the diagnostic tools frequently performed to determine the presence of lesions in internal organs.
The first treatment option for a cavernous hemangioma is observation of the lesion, as most cases do not affect the proper functioning of the body. Lesions that grow on the skin and cause disfigurements, however, are often recommended for surgical removal. In some cases where the lesion is in the brain or other internal organs, surgery is also often recommended. Doctors also use steroids to reduce the size of the lump and swelling of the affected body parts.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
