Rapidly involuting congenital haemangioma: diagnostic and therapeutic approach regarding two case reports

Abstract

Two unrelated neonates were born with a large purplish congenital mass of the thigh and forearm. Both showed signs of heart dysfunction, and one of them had anaemia and thrombocytopenia. The imaging assessment of the lesions showed well-defined subcutaneous solid masses with an exuberant vascular component. Both were kept under surveillance and maintenance therapy. A progressive dimensional reduction of the lesions supported the diagnosis of rapidly involuting congenital haemangioma (RICH). RICH is a rare vascular tumour that presents as a congenital purplish bulky mass. The diagnosis depends on the clinical evaluation of the lesion and the imaging characterisation of its solid components and vascular network. RICH may be complicated by high-output heart failure, anaemia and thrombocytopenia. Despite its exuberant presentation, it undergoes involution in the first year of life; therefore, early invasive therapies should be avoided. It is essential to detect any dimensional increase, suggesting more aggressive diagnoses, such as kaposiform haemangioendothelioma.