Lobular capillary hemangioma, also known as pyogenic granuloma, is a benign vascular tumor that occurs in the skin and mucous membranes. It is a type of angioma, which is a tumor that is composed of abnormal blood vessels.
The term “lobular” refers to the appearance of the tumor, which is characterized by the presence of small, rounded lobules. The term “capillary” refers to the type of blood vessels present in the tumor, which are small, thin-walled vessels. The term “hemangioma” refers to the presence of abnormal blood vessels in the tumor.
This type of tumor is usually red or pink in color and can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. It is most commonly found on the face, neck, and upper extremities, and is typically seen in children and young adults.
Causes
The exact cause of lobular capillary hemangioma is unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development. Some of the main causes of lobular capillary hemangioma include:
- Trauma: Injury to the skin or tissue may trigger the development of lobular capillary hemangioma. The injury may cause blood vessels to grow excessively, resulting in the formation of a lesion.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy, may cause an increase in blood flow to the affected area, leading to the development of lobular capillary hemangioma.
- Inflammation: Inflammation or infection of the skin or tissue may trigger the formation of lobular capillary hemangioma.
- Genetics: Lobular capillary hemangioma may be hereditary, and some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to develop this condition.
- Immune system problems: Individuals with a weakened immune system may be more susceptible to developing lobular capillary hemangioma.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as topical corticosteroids, may cause the formation of lobular capillary hemangioma.
In conclusion, the exact cause of lobular capillary hemangioma is still unknown, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors may contribute to its development. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have this condition.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of lobular capillary hemangioma include:
- Reddish or purplish skin lesion: The lesion is usually small, round, and well-defined, and is often referred to as a “strawberry mark”.
- Painless: The lesion is usually painless, although it may be tender to the touch.
- Rapid growth: The lesion may grow rapidly in the first few months of life and then slow down or stop growing.
- Change in color: The color of the lesion may change over time, becoming darker or lighter.
- Location: Lobular capillary hemangiomas are most commonly found on the face, neck, and trunk.
- Size: The size of the lesion may vary from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
- Disfigurement: The lesion may cause disfigurement, especially if it is located on the face or neck.
It is important to note that the symptoms of lobular capillary hemangioma may be different for each person, and not all people with this condition will experience all of these symptoms. If you are concerned about a lesion on your skin, it is best to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Diagnosis
The main diagnosis of lobular capillary hemangioma is based on the physical examination and a biopsy of the lesion.
- Physical Examination: A physical examination of the lesion is the first step in diagnosing lobular capillary hemangioma. The lesion is usually red or pink, raised, and may bleed easily. The size of the lesion can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
- Biopsy: A biopsy is the most important diagnostic test for lobular capillary hemangioma. During a biopsy, a small portion of the lesion is removed and examined under a microscope. This helps to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential skin conditions.
- Imaging Tests: In some cases, imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan may be used to help diagnose lobular capillary hemangioma. These tests can help to determine the size, shape, and location of the lesion and can also help to rule out other potential underlying conditions.
- Blood Tests: Blood tests may also be performed to rule out other potential conditions that may cause similar symptoms. These tests may include a complete blood count, liver function tests, or anemia tests.
- Dermatoscopic examination: This test uses a special magnifying device to examine the lesion in detail and to identify the characteristic patterns of blood vessels.
- Doppler ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to visualize the blood flow in the lesion and to confirm the presence of blood vessels.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This test uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the lesion and to identify the underlying structures.
In conclusion, the main diagnosis of lobular capillary hemangioma is based on a physical examination, biopsy, and possibly imaging tests and blood tests. The goal of these tests is to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
Treatment
This condition is caused by the abnormal proliferation of blood vessels in the skin and can occur anywhere on the body, but is most common on the face, neck, arms, and legs.
The main treatments for lobular capillary hemangioma are:
- Surgical excision: This is the most common treatment for lobular capillary hemangioma. The growth is removed by cutting it out with a scalpel or a laser. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and results in a permanent cure.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves freezing the growth with liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off after a few days. This is a quick and effective treatment but may result in scarring or discoloration.
- Electrodesiccation and curettage: This treatment involves scraping the growth with a sharp instrument and then cauterizing the area with an electric current. This treatment is effective but may cause scarring or discoloration.
- Topical medications: Some topical medications, such as imiquimod cream, have been used to treat lobular capillary hemangioma. These medications work by stimulating the immune system to attack growth.
- Sclerotherapy: This is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting a chemical solution into the growth to shrink it. This treatment is less invasive than surgical excision but may require multiple treatments.
- Laser therapy: This treatment uses a laser to target the blood vessels and cause them to shrink. This procedure is most effective for smaller, isolated lesions.
- Surgical excision: In severe cases, surgical excision may be necessary to remove the affected blood vessels. This is typically done under local anesthesia and is a quick and straightforward procedure.
- Topical drugs: Topical creams containing corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation and help shrink the affected vessels.
The choice of treatment will depend on the size and location of the growth, the patient’s age, and other factors. It is important to discuss all available treatment options with a doctor to determine the best approach for each individual case.
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