Infantile hemangiomas

Abstract

Infantile hemangiomas (IH) are the most common tumors of childhood. They are characterized by rapid growth during the first year of life and slow regression that is usually completed by 7 to 10 years of age. The unique ability to involute spontaneously often leads primary care providers to assume IH require no intervention. However, some IH are associated with complications that may be life-threatening, or may cause functional impairment and permanent disfigurement. Therefore, it is important to asses which IH require early consultation with a specialist. The purpose of this review is to update the pediatric community with the most recent knowledge about epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, complications and therapeutic approaches of IH.