Hemangioma of the umbilical cord: A case report and proposal for standardised reporting criteria

Abstract

Umbilical cord hemangiomas are rare benign vascular anomalies with limited documentation in the literature. Given their association with adverse perinatal outcomes, standardised criteria for reporting and monitoring are needed. This case report presents an instance of umbilical cord hemangioma and proposes a structured framework for future documentation.

A comprehensive literature review using OVID Medline and Embase identified cases of umbilical cord hemangiomas, their clinical presentations, and maternal and neonatal outcomes. A case diagnosed in the third trimester is presented, detailing antenatal surveillance, histopathological findings, and perinatal outcomes. Key parameters were analysed in the context of the literature to inform standardised reporting criteria.

A 36-year-old woman (G3P2) was diagnosed with an umbilical cord hemangioma at 29 + 3 weeks gestation following a routine growth scan. Serial ultrasound scans demonstrated lesion stability until 35 + 4 weeks, prompting increased fetal surveillance. Multidisciplinary consensus favoured expectant management, leading to an uncomplicated spontaneous vaginal delivery at 39 weeks. Histopathology confirmed a cord hemangioma composed of dilated, ectatic vascular channels lined by endothelial cells.

This case contributes to the growing body of evidence on umbilical cord hemangiomas by providing detailed clinical, ultrasound, and histopathological findings. Successful expectant management and favourable perinatal outcomes highlight the role of serial ultrasound surveillance. Given the rarity and potential risks of these lesions, standardised reporting is essential to improve understanding and to guide management. By proposing a set of standardised reporting criteria, this case report serves as a step toward enhancing data consistency and informing management strategies.