Infantile vascular tumors

• Published in: Anales de pediatría (Barcelona, Spain : 2003) Vol. 72; no. 2; pp. 143.e1 - 143.e15
• Main Authors: Almaraz, R López, Gutiérrez, J C López, Bieler, C Belendez, Hernández, A Herrero, González, M E Mateos, Villar, G Ramírez
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Spanish
• Published: Spain 01.02.2010
• Subjects: Humans; Infant; Vascular Neoplasms - pathology
• ISSN: 1695-9531
• DOI: 10.1016/j.anpedi.2009.10.007

The use in the past of an imprecise terminology to designate vascular tumors has contributed to its incorrect diagnosis, and as a consequence, to inadequate treatment. In childhood, different types of vascular tumors may be present. Hemangiomas of infancy are by far the most frequent, and other less common types are congenital hemangiomas (rapidly involuting or RICH and non-involuting or NICH), kaposiform hemangioendothelioma, angioblastoma or tufted angioma and pyogenic granuloma. The correct knowledge and diagnosis, always in a multidisciplinary setting, is required to reduce incorrect diagnosis, unnecessary complementary examinations and invasive tests, and for the patient to receive the most effective and precise treatment in each case. This article reviews the historical evolution, nomenclature and classification of vascular lesions, the different clinical and pathological characteristics of each vascular tumor, the complementary examinations required correct diagnosis, the differential diagnosis, as well as highlighting the treatment options currently available for different vascular tumors and related clinical conditions.