What is hemangioma, and what should be done about it?

Nov 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Lei

Introduction

In general, hemangiomas may be caused by abnormal embryonic development, hormonal fluctuations, strawberry hemangiomas, cavernous hemangiomas, or arteriovenous (racemose) hemangiomas. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through conservative management, medication, or other treatments. In daily life, it is important to protect the area with the hemangioma, avoiding trauma or pressure that could lead to rupture and bleeding.

Under normal circumstances, hemangiomas may be caused by abnormal embryonic development, hormonal fluctuations, strawberry hemangioma, cavernous hemangioma, or arteriovenous (racemose) hemangioma. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, or other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Abnormal embryonic development: During the embryonic period, abnormal differentiation of vascular tissues leads to excessive proliferation of vascular endothelial cells, resulting in hemangioma formation, which typically appears in infancy. If the hemangioma is small and asymptomatic, regular observation is recommended, along with avoiding friction or irritation. Some infantile hemangiomas may spontaneously regress as the child grows.

2. Hormonal fluctuations: In adult women, changes in estrogen levels during pregnancy, menopause, or other stages may stimulate endothelial cell proliferation, triggering or worsening hemangiomas. Maintaining regular sleep patterns, avoiding late nights, and minimizing intake of exogenous hormones—such as refraining from overusing hormone-containing cosmetics—can help stabilize hormone levels and slow hemangioma progression.

3. Strawberry hemangioma: Caused by capillary proliferation, this type presents as red or purplish-red raised patches, commonly seen on the skin of infants. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as timolol maleate ophthalmic solution, propranolol tablets, or prednisone tablets to inhibit vascular proliferation. Laser therapy can also be used to destroy abnormal blood vessel tissue.

4. Cavernous hemangioma: Composed of numerous dilated cavernous vascular sinuses, this type feels soft and has unclear borders, possibly accompanied by local swelling. Under medical supervision, drugs such as sodium morrhuate injection, polidocanol injection, or pingyangmycin injection may be used to induce endothelial cell necrosis and fibrosis, thereby reducing the size of the hemangioma.

5. Arteriovenous (racemose) hemangioma: Formed by abnormal connections between arteries and veins, this type often presents with noticeable pulsation and audible bruits, potentially affecting local blood circulation. Medication has limited effectiveness; surgical excision of the hemangioma is usually required to completely remove the affected vascular tissue. Alternatively, interventional embolization may be performed to block the abnormal vascular channels, improve local blood flow, and prevent disease progression.

In daily life, it is important to protect the area affected by hemangioma, avoiding trauma or pressure that could lead to rupture and bleeding. Regular follow-up evaluations should be conducted to monitor changes in the size and appearance of the hemangioma. A diet avoiding spicy and irritating foods is recommended, with increased intake of fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins. Proper scientific care can reduce discomfort caused by hemangiomas and support overall health.

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What should be done if a child's hemangioma keeps growing larger?

Hemangiomas in children may gradually grow larger. Management options include regular monitoring, medication, laser therapy, local injection treatment, and surgical intervention, with the choice of approach depending on the type, location, and size of the hemangioma. Immediate medical attention is recommended if the hemangioma grows rapidly, compresses surrounding tissues, or develops ulceration and bleeding. For small hemangiomas that cause no discomfort and grow slowly, conservative observation may be appropriate.

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What should be done about hemangioma in newborns?

Hemangiomas in newborns can be managed through professional evaluation and monitoring, topical medication, precise laser therapy, local injection of sclerosing agents, or surgical excision. Most benign hemangiomas have a good prognosis. Immediate medical attention is recommended if the hemangioma is located in a special area, grows rapidly, or develops ulceration. Neonatal hemangiomas are mostly benign.

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What is a benign hemangioma?

In general, benign hemangiomas may be caused by abnormal embryonic development, hormonal changes, vascular endothelial cell proliferation, local tissue hypoxia, or trauma. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, avoid scratching or rubbing the affected area to prevent injury and bleeding.

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What are the several causes that trigger the development of hemangiomas?

Some hemangiomas show a familial clustering tendency, and genetic abnormalities may increase the risk of developing the condition. Hereditary factors may affect the regulatory mechanisms of vascular development, leading to disruptions in the process of blood vessel formation and thus triggering hemangiomas. During embryonic development, abnormalities in the formation of the vascular system—such as abnormal proliferation of vascular buds or incomplete differentiation of vascular structures—may occur.