How are hemangiomas managed?
Treatment is dependent upon both the stage of growth (proliferation vs. involution) of the lesion, the presence of complications, and emotional needs and considerations. Observation, laser therapy, drug therapy, and surgical removal are the four most common management options. In some patients, a combination of several of these treatments may be used over a period of time. • Observation. In most cases, observation is the best course to follow, especially when the hemangioma is involuting and your child’s functioning is not impaired. • Laser therapy. Laser therapy is used to treat ulcerated hemangiomas and superficial residual skin telangiectasias. This treatment option has not proven to be effective during the early growth phase of hemangiomas and can cause significant scarring. • Drug therapy. Medical therapy is used for complicated hemangiomas in the proliferative phase. Their purpose is to slow the growth and decrease the size of the lesion and to prevent further complications. Medi
