Vascular Anomalies (Birth Marks)

Birth marks are blemishes that come up at birth or during first months of life as a result of abnormal placement of skin elements in the skin. Many birth marks are not hereditary, which means the same marks cannot be expected on the other members of the family. Even though there are many known genetic mutations that cause birth marks, the exact cause of its formation is not known and contrary to popular belief, it does not occur as a result of the mother's behaviour during pregnancy. 


 

It can be in blue, gray, pink and red

Vascular birth marks are formed by the blood vessels in the skin coming together in bundles. They can be in blue, gray, pink or red. There are many types of vascular birth marks. The most common vascular birth mark is hemangioma and port-wine stain, however; there are many rare vascular birth marks other than these.
 

Treatment by experienced hands is really important

Vascular birth marks are classified as capillary (capillary vessel), venous (venous), lymphatic (lymphatic vessel) and arteriovenous (artery-venous) malformation/fistula according to their dominant vascular structure and flow rate. While they can be observed alone, many vascular structures can be together (combined vascular malformation) or appear with various syndromes such as excess growth in a specific part of the body. Even though differential diagnosis can be made with the clinical examination performed by experienced physicians, it may sometimes require weeks or even months to make the definitive diagnosis. All vascular marks that show a change in the first 2 months should be directed to related centers and thoroughly assessed in terms of diagnosis and accompanying symptoms. It should be assessed by physicians from various branches and advanced imaging methods, skin biopsy and genetic examinations should be performed. By starting on laser treatments, sclerotherapy, surgical and newly developed medication treatments according to results, favorable progression can be ensured in the early period.