What should be done about hemangioma in newborns?

Nov 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Lei

Introduction

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.

Infantile hemangiomas, which appear shortly after birth, can be managed through professional evaluation and monitoring, topical medication, precise laser therapy, local injection of sclerosing agents, or surgical removal. Most benign hemangiomas have a good prognosis. However, if the hemangioma is located in a critical area, grows rapidly, or develops ulceration, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Professional Evaluation and Monitoring: Neonatal hemangiomas are mostly benign. Soon after birth, a pediatrician or dermatologist should evaluate the type, size, and potential risks. For low-risk cases, regular follow-ups are sufficient to monitor growth changes, as many may regress spontaneously.

2. Topical Medication: For superficial, slowly growing hemangiomas, topical medications may be used under medical supervision to inhibit abnormal blood vessel proliferation. This approach avoids systemic side effects associated with oral medications. Skin reactions should be closely monitored during treatment.

3. Laser Precise Therapy: Suitable for superficial hemangiomas affecting appearance, this method uses gentle laser energy to selectively destroy abnormal vessels. It is minimally invasive, allows quick recovery, and preserves surrounding healthy skin, making it well-tolerated by newborns.

4. Local Injection of Sclerosing Agents: Used for deeper or moderately sized hemangiomas, this procedure involves injecting medication directly into the lesion to induce vascular occlusion and shrinkage. It avoids systemic drug exposure and imposes minimal burden on the infant’s body. The procedure must be performed by a qualified physician.

5. Surgical Excision: Reserved for high-risk hemangiomas that are large, compress vital organs, or repeatedly ulcerate. Minimally invasive surgery removes the lesion, followed by meticulous postoperative care to minimize infection risk.

Dress newborns in soft, breathable cotton clothing to avoid friction on the hemangioma site. Keep the affected skin clean and handle gently during bathing. Avoid touching or pressing the lesion, and follow medical advice for proper daily care.

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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 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 is hemangioma, and what should be done about it?

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.

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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.