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Hemangiomas

What Is a Hemangioma?

A hemangioma is a type of birthmark caused by extra blood vessels in the skin. Sometimes they're visible at birth, but they may take up to two weeks to appear.

Often, the birthmark first shows up as a flat bright pink or red spot on the skin. As time passes, it grows and looks like a red bump on the skin.

These benign skin tumors are the most common type of soft-tissue tumor in infants.

Sometimes a hemangioma on the face or head can cause problems with:

  • Breathing
  • Vision
  • Hearing

These raised tumors are also easy to scratch and bump.

When done growing, it will stay the same size for a while. Then it will shrink and go away, leaving just a red mark. Most hemangiomas go away by the time a child is 5 to 10 years old.

The vascular anomalies team at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh has expert training in treating hemangiomas. To make an appointment for your child, call us at 412-692-8650.

Kendall's Story

Kendall suffered a hemangioma, sometimes called “strawberry marks.” Learn more about her path to recovery and experience at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Read Kendall's story.

Contact the Vascular Anomalies Center

Call us to learn about our hemangioma treatment options or make an appointment at 412-692-8650.