An Overview of Vascular Malformations in the Oral and Maxillofacial Region

Abstract

This review provides a comprehensive overview of vascular malformations in the oral and maxillofacial region, focusing on their historical context, classifications, clinical characteristics, and treatment options. Vascular anomalies (VA) encompass a diverse range of medical conditions affecting the body's vasculature. The study highlights the challenges in diagnosing and managing these conditions due to their varied presentations. It delves into the historical terminology, highlighting how terms like cherry, port-wine stain, and strawberry were used to describe these anomalies. The paper discusses the classification system proposed by the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA), which categorizes vascular anomalies into tumors and malformations based on the presence or absence of endothelial mitotic activity. The importance of accurate histopathological descriptions in diagnosing and treating these anomalies is emphasized. Furthermore, the article provides a detailed discussion of the major types of vascular anomalies, including capillary malformations, venous malformations, arteriovenous malformations, and lymphatic malformations. Each type is characterized by its own unique features, clinical presentations, and associated complications. In terms of treatment, the review discusses various options, including laser therapy, sclerotherapy, embolization, and surgical resection, highlighting the factors that influence treatment decisions, such as lesion type, location, and extent.