Care and Cure for Infantile Hemangioma

Infantile hemangiomas (IH) are common benign vascular tumors, that become visible shortly after birth, and have an unique growth pattern. Most IH have an uncomplicated course and a general ‘wait and see’ policy is often justified. However, 24% of the patients with IH experience complications, like ulceration, bleeding, functional impairment, life-threatening risk, or cosmetic risk of which 38% need treatment. Nowadays complicated IH can be treated with beta blockers. An active approach and diagnostic evaluation is also necessary in case of a segmental IH which can be associated with congenital malformations. Correct initial diagnosis and timely referral of patients at risk of complications is important, since early intervention may prevent complications.