Vascular Anomalies in the Neonate: Dilemmas in Management

Precise diagnosis and appropriate management of cutaneous vascular anomalies have been confounded by confusion in nomenclature and dilemmas in management. Vascular anomalies are now classified into vascular tumors and vascular malformations. They are not only cosmetically disfiguring but can also be associated with serious medical disorders and can even be life threatening. The absolute indications for referring a neonate with vascular anomalies include a rapidly proliferative hemangioma, ulceration, bleeding, destruction, distortion, obstruction, and congestive heart failure. Multidisciplinary clinics effectively address these complicated and troubling disorders by providing accurate diagnoses, clear treatment recommendations, and counseling from a team of specialists.