infantile hemangioma
most common benign vascular tumors (4%). risk factors: low birth weight, female gender, twin gestation and fair skin. after birth, a premonitory mark may be present such as a bruise-like patch, area of vasoconstriction/pallor or telangiectasia.
proliferate during first 2-3 months of life with rapid growth of superficial IH between 5-7 weeks. growth usually stabilizes around 4-6 mo. followed by involution over years. larger deeper IH grow for longer and involute more slowly. based on these growth characteristics. IH requiring intervention should be referred for treatment before 3 months of age.most require no intervention
possible complications: ulceration ,visual impairment, multifocal presentation, aesthetic complications, complex associations ( PHACE, LUMBAR/SACRAL). oral propranolol = new treatment.