Modern treatment of infantile hemangioma

Abstract

Infantile hemangioma (IH) is the most common benign vascular tumor in children of the first year, which is based on abnormal proliferation of endothelial cells under the influence of the main pro-angiogenic factors: vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factors (FGF). It develops in the first weeks after birth, forming over 3–9 months with regression in the next 3–7 years. Three-quarters of infantile hemangiomas are nodular and are not accompanied by malformations. At the same time, segmental IH is most often associated with syndromic forms. Despite spontaneous regression (in 90% of cases), some forms and localization of IH can lead to the development of complications, local and endangering vital functions. In most cases, the diagnosis is based on anamnesis, characteristic features of the tumor, and clinical course. Additional studies (ultrasound DG, MRI/CT, biopsy) are necessary in complicated forms and in doubtful clinical cases.