Hemangiomas: Beyond the Skin.

Abstract

Infantile hemangiomas (IH) are common birthmarks. Their natural history of rapid growth during early infancy followed by gradual involution in the first few years of life is well recognized. Although the majority do not require additional evaluation or treatment, a significant minority need closer surveillance, imaging studies, and/or active intervention to prevent complications. This review will provide a focused examination of IH with a potential for extracutaneous involvement or associated structural anomalies. Although uncommon, these complications are not exceedingly rare, and pediatricians play a key role in early recognition. This review emphasizes the importance of the features of cutaneous IH, which should prompt evaluation for extracutaneous involvement, including their pattern on the skin surface, number of lesions, and specific anatomic sites that confer increased risk.