Best Hemangioma Doctors in Visakhapatnam

Haemangiomas, commonly known as "strawberry birthmarks," are benign growths composed of small blood vessels. They typically appear shortly after birth and can occur anywhere on the body, with common locations being the face, scalp, chest, or back. The exact cause of haemangiomas is unknown, but they are believed to arise from abnormal proliferation of blood vessels in a particular area. Though largely harmless, a haemangioma might cause complications if it interferes with vision or breathing.

The prevalence of haemangioma is not unknown to the residents of Vizag. Apollo Hospitals in Vizag, houses some of the city's best doctors for the treatment of haemangioma. These specialists for the treatment of haemangioma are exceptionally skilled in treating and rectifying various anomalies, including arteriovenous malformations.

Types/Stages of Haemangioma

Haemangiomas can be categorised based on their appearance and the location in which they form. The most common types of haemangiomas are:

•  Capillary Haemangiomas: These are superficial lesions located on the surface of the skin and are bright red in colour. They consist of small blood vessels and commonly occur on the face, scalp, or neck.

• Deep Haemangiomas: These are located deep in the skin and appear as a blue or purplish mass. They involve larger blood vessels and are also known as cavernous haemangiomas.

• Compound Haemangiomas: These have the characteristics of both capillary and deep haemangiomas and may appear as a mixed pattern of red and blue or purplish areas.

  Symptoms of Haemangioma

  The symptoms associated with haemangioma often depend upon its location and size. These may include:

• A red lesion that develops within one to two weeks after birth

• A lesion that grows rapidly over 6-8 months

• A lesion that slowly fades over 7-10 years

• Possible bleeding or ulceration in large lesions

Tests to Diagnose Haemangioma

A haemangioma is usually identified based on its appearance. However, specialist for the treatment of haemangioma may recommend some tests that can be used to confirm the diagnosis. These include:

• Physical Examination: The doctor examines the affected area, noting the size, shape, colour, and asks about any changes in the appearance of the haemangioma.

• Doppler Ultrasound: This is used to examine the structure of the blood vessels within the lesion, providing real-time images using sound waves.

• MRI Scan: An MRI scan can provide detailed images of the haemangioma and its surrounding structures.

• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): FNA involves using a thin needle to extract cells or fluid from the haemangioma, aiding in diagnosis and ruling out other conditions.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Haemangioma at Apollo Hospitals, Vizag

The team of doctors for the treatment of haemangioma at Apollo Hospitals in Vizag, offer customised treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific requirements, considering factors such as size, location, and potential complications. Treatment options include:

•  Observation: Very often haemangiomas tend to resolve on their own over time and therefore only need to be closely monitored.

• Medications: Beta-blockers such as propranolol, which can help shrink haemangiomas by reducing blood flow to the affected area, may be prescribed.

• Laser Therapy: This is often used for superficial or "surface" haemangiomas. The laser light works by shrinking the blood vessels that supply the haemangioma.

• Surgery: In cases where haemangiomas are large, causing functional impairment, or located in critical areas (like near the eyes or airways), surgical removal may be necessary.