Birthmarks and Vascular Anomalies in Children: Classification, Diagnosis and Management

Abstract

Birthmarks are a common presentation among newborns and the majority do not require any medical intervention. However, vascular anomalies, which are an umbrella of diverse pathological conditions require special attention for a multitude of factors. Vascular anomalies lesions can appear at any stage of development, including prenatal, perinatal, and childhood. They are broadly classified as vascular malformations and vascular tumours. While many lesions have a straightforward natural course, more complex, extensive, or progressive lesions can pose a threat to life due to mass effects and severe complications including haemorrhage, or high-volume arteriovenous shunting. Infantile haemangioma, congenital haemangioma, and kaposiform hemangioendothelioma are the sub-classifications of vascular tumours, with infantile haemangioma being the most prevalent. Depending on the nature, location, extent, and accompanying manifestations of the tumour, there are several management options for vascular tumours, including conservative methods, pharmacological therapy, and surgical intervention. Low-flow and high-flow lesions are two subcategories of vascular malformations. Capillary, venous, and lymphatic malformations are examples of low-flow lesions, while arteriovenous malformations, a highly varied set of lesions that can present in a number of ways, are classified under high-flow lesions. Endovascular or surgical obliteration is the basis of treatment for these dynamic lesions. The purpose of this research is to review the available information about birthmarks and vascular anomalies in children; classification, diagnosis, and management.