Hemangiomas

Hemangiomas

Hemangiomas are a common vascular birthmark. About 10 percent of Caucasians have hemangiomas. Hemangiomas may vary in appearance, from red, raised patches to deeper, purple areas. Hemangiomas usually appear within the first month of life, grow rapidly for the first year, and may start to go away by the age of 5 years old. Fifty percent of hemangiomas become smaller naturally by 5 years old. Hemangiomas are either superficial or deep. Surgery may be indicated for large or growing hemangiomas, or hemangiomas that are causing problems because of their location. The type of laser usually used for this condition is the pulsed dye laser which produces a short, high-energy flash of light. The light is colored when it passes through a dye. The color of the dye can be changed, depending upon the type of pigmented skin spots that are being treated. Multiple treatments may be necessary.