How To Diagnose And Treat A Strawberry Hemangioma

Surgery

Surgical options are usually considered a last resort for strawberry hemangioma treatment, and operations are often only recommended for hemangiomas that may pose a risk to organs. Some patients who have strawberry hemangiomas on the face or other areas visible on a regular basis may choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. If the procedure involves the removal of a strawberry hemangioma that is small and not too deep, the operation can normally be performed in a dermatologist's or plastic surgeon's office with the use of local anesthetic. Patients may need to return the week after the procedure to have stitches removed, and doctors may prescribe pain relievers for patients to take after the surgery. For larger or deeper hemangiomas, patients may need to have the removal performed under general anesthesia, which will take place at a hospital or at an outpatient surgical facility. Patients can normally be discharged the same day. Risks of both types of procedures include scarring and bleeding, and these risks will be carefully explained to the patient before the operation.

Topical or Oral Medication

The use of topical or oral medication can encourage strawberry hemangiomas to fade, making them less noticeable. These medications are available by prescription only, and dermatologists and plastic surgeons can provide patients with personalized advice about which medications may work best for them. In addition to topical and oral medications, some medications are available as injections. In 2014, a drug known as propranolol hydrochloride was approved to treat strawberry hemangiomas in pediatric patients. The medication is a beta blocker that is also used to treat heart conditions. While taking this medicine, patients and caregivers should remain alert for potential side effects such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and insomnia. Patients should be monitored closely by their physicians with regular follow-up care, and any side effects should be reported to the patient's healthcare team.