Vascular tumors

Abstract

Vascular tumors comprise a broad spectrum of lesions that often represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The use of different terminologies in the literature has led to considerable confusion. The revised WHO classification differs from the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) classification for benign lesions, but they are in overall agreement regarding intermediate and malignant lesions. The use of the ISSVA classification system has been strongly recommended in recent years because of its effectiveness and usefulness for determining the appropriate treatment in patients with vascular lesions, particularly in pediatric patients. Ultrasound coupled with color Doppler US is the imaging modality of choice for the initial assessment and characterization of a lesion of presumed vascular origin. MRI has a major role in defining the lesion’s extent and therapy planning. Infantile hemangioma is the most common vascular tumor in infancy. Venous malformation represents the most common peripheral vascular malformation, followed by lymphatic malformation. Furthermore, a number of familial or sporadic syndromes may be associated with vascular tumors and malformations.