A giant head and neck hemangioma of the fetus: A case report

Abstract

Rationale: Hemangioma is a common benign disease in clinical practice, but it is rare to find a giant hemangioma in the fetal period. Patient concerns: Here, we report a case of a giant hemangioma of the fetal head and neck measuring approximately 10.1 × 6.5 cm. Diagnoses: At first, only ultrasonography was used to diagnose the suspected hemangioma. The pregnant woman refused to undergo further testing and requested induction of labor, after which the tumor was finally sent for pathological examination to confirm hemangioma. Interventions and outcomes: Additionally, the fetus developed severe edema (fluid accumulation in the thoracic, abdominal, and pericardial cavities), which can be fatal to the fetus. Finally, the mother refused to continue the pregnancy and underwent induction of labor with rivanol. Lessons: Most hemangiomas are small and asymptomatic. Giant hemangiomas are rare and associated with a variety of maternal and fetal complications. Therefore, this article aims to summarize the knowledge related to hemangioma through this case, strengthen doctors’ understanding of this disease, and bring the attention of pregnant women to this disease to ensure early diagnosis and treatment and prevent a poor prognosis.