Vascular Anomalies
Many vascular anomalies have a rather similar appearance. They tend to be either flat or raised and colored in various shades of blue, pink, purple, or red.
Vascular birthmarks (anomalies) identified in infancy are categorized as either hemangiomas or vascular malformations. The difference is that hemangiomas are the result of cellular hyperplasia (too many normal cells), whereas vascular malformations are the result of developmental errors within the cells (the cells do not develop, as they should have). As a result although hemangiomas and vascular malformations are similar in appearance the expected outcomes and treatment plans are different.
Identification of the lesion is generally based on the history reported by the patient or family, physical examination of the lesion, and radiologic testing: most often magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) although other tests may be decided on.
The purpose of this section is to assist families in understanding the various descriptions of vascular lesions and some of the medical terminology they might encounter. It is also directed at describing the progress of some of the more common lesions and potential complications they might expect with these.
No single specialist has sufficient knowledge to treat the wide variety of often poorly understood vascular abnormalities. Our Vascular Malformation Clinic utilizes a multi-disciplinary team approach. Our plastic surgeon and interventional radiologist assess all patients. Other team members, including physiotherapists, social worker, dermatologists, etc. are consulted on an individual basis. As such we are able to serve as a focus for accurate diagnosis, appropriate management, and clinical and basic research in this interdisciplinary field.
Please select a vascular malformation from the side menu to learn more.