Dermatology Treatments for Vascular Anomalies
Learning that your child has a vascular anomaly may leave you with many questions. Experts at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles explain your child’s condition and provide the highest level of care. Your child benefits from a team of vascular anomalies specialists that includes pediatric dermatologists.
Vascular anomalies affect the skin in many ways. Some cause small pink patches that fade over time. Others cover large areas. They may be bright pink, purple or red. We successfully treat some malformations using only dermatologic therapies. For complex anomalies, dermatologists are part of a highly skilled team that’s one of the most respected in the Western U.S.
Dermatology Treatments for Vascular Anomalies: Why Choose Us
Children’s Hospital is home to pediatric dermatologists with a special interest in vascular anomalies. Our experts are Board-certified, meaning they passed rigorous exams demonstrating their knowledge. Our dermatologists are also current on the latest vascular anomalies research. Our skills and expertise help us accurately diagnose a broad range of conditions so that more children achieve exceptional results.
Highlights of our program include:
- Appropriate therapies: Some vascular anomalies require immediate treatment while others go away on their own. We use research-based methods to determine if and when treatments are necessary. We always start with a comprehensive evaluation to accurately diagnose the condition so that your child’s care gets off on the right foot.
- Nonsurgical options: Many children who require treatment do not need surgery. We offer a variety of medical treatments for vascular anomalies, including medications (propranolol) and laser therapy. Our experts provide personalized care recommendations targeted to your child’s condition.
- Compassionate care: Preserving your child’s positive self-image is an important aspect of the care we provide. For highly visible vascular anomalies, we may start treatments before children are old enough to feel self-conscious about them. If the anomaly’s appearance does not bother your child and immediate treatment is not necessary, we may recommend waiting.
Team Approach to Vascular Anomalies
Our dermatologists work alongside other pediatric specialists to treat children with complex anomalies. We have the experience and expertise necessary to treat all types of vascular anomalies, including rare conditions.
We use a team approach to treat these conditions. Your child may benefit from the expertise of surgeons, interventional radiologists, hematologist-oncologists and more. At our multidisciplinary center, specialists provide coordinated recommendations in fewer visits. Explore our patient and family resources to learn more about what to expect.
Dermatologic Treatments for Vascular Anomalies
Our team develops a personalized care plan that reflects your child’s unique needs. We consider a variety of factors, including the diagnosis, symptom severity and your child’s age.
If dermatologic therapies are right for your child, treatment may include:
Beta-blockers (propranolol)
This medication slows fast-growing vascular anomalies, such as infantile hemangiomas. Propranolol is especially helpful for anomalies near the eyes or airway. These drugs are most effective for early-stage hemangiomas affecting the top layers of skin. They rarely cause side effects.
Laser therapy
This treatment uses powerful light beams to treat vascular anomalies through the skin. We often use it to treat vascular anomalies inside the mouth, including on the tongue. It’s also for anomalies that leak or bleed. Laser therapy causes minimal disruption to nearby tissue. To achieve the best results, your child may need several treatments.
Second Opinions and Adult Consultations for Dermatology Vascular Anomalies Treatments
Vascular anomalies can be challenging to diagnose and treat, which is why many families seek second opinions. Hearing from multiple specialists can help you make the best care decisions for your child. Get more information about online second opinions.
Adult consultations are for patients 21 and older who have signs or symptoms of vascular anomalies. This includes individuals whose symptoms do not appear until later in life, or those who have ongoing care needs. We provide personalized care recommendations and may coordinate a referral to an adult dermatologist.
Comprehensive Vascular Anomalies Care for Children
We offer access to multiple pediatric subspecialists in one convenient location in Los Angeles. Find out more about our Vascular Anomalies Center.
