Capillary hemangiomas are one of the most common benign orbital tumors of infancy. Capillary hemangiomas are believed to be hamartomatous proliferations of vascular endothelial cells. They are now thought to be of placental origin due to a unique microvascular phenotype shared by juvenile hemangiomas and human placenta. Capillary hemangiomas may be located anywhere on the body but they are most common on the face, scalp, back, and chest. They may be evident at birth or become noticeable several weeks later. They usually grow quickly, then remain fixed in size and, with time, subside. 50% of systemic capillary hemangiomas can occur in the head and neck region.
Capillary hemangiomas are present in approximately 1-2% of neonates. Capillary hemangiomas are typically found at birth. They will grow during the first decade and most will shrink (involutes). Parents are often alarmed at the sight of these hemangiomas and need reassurance that the great majority will regress spontaneously. Treatments such as cryosurgery, irradiation, radium instillation, corticosteroid therapy, or surgical excision are often ineffective or cause significant morbidity. Observation for spontaneous resolution is commonly performed. Pulsed dye laser can be useful for very early flat lesions. Clobetasol propionate (Temovate) cream for vision-threatening eyelid hemangiomas. Topical application via creams yield the slowest results, as responses may not show for several weeks.
Capillary Hemangioma Treatment Tips:
1. Cryosurgery is reduce symptoms of capillary hemangiomas.
2. Irradiation is efffective treatment against capillary hemangiomas.
3. Radium instillation also helpful treatment.
4. Corticosteroid therapy useful for very early flat lesions.
5. Topical application via creams yield the slowest results.
6. Surgical excision is required to remove very large tumors.
