Vascular Malformations

Abstract

Our understanding of vascular anomalies has advanced greatly over recent decades. Vascular malformations comprise a wide spectrum of disorders that are broadly classified as tumors and malformations. Diagnosis is challenging due to the variety of clinical presentations and shared signs and symptoms. Misdiagnosis can result in excessive testing, insufficient monitoring, or potentially harmful and ineffective surgical procedures and medical treatments. Accurate diagnosis is crucial in determining the prognosis of a particular lesion and selecting the correct treatment strategy, which may require the involvement of multiple subspecialists during different stages of treatment. It follows that a consistent, clear terminology is vital to diagnosis. In 1988, the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies developed a standard classification system for vascular anomalies that is regularly updated to improve clinical relevance and incorporate medical advancements. Continued dedication of medical providers, researchers, and patients to the scientific study of vascular anomalies is vital in increasing our understanding, developing new treatments, improving outcomes, and enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families.