Vascular Malformations

Vascular malformations, like haemangiomas, are abnormalities of blood vessels.  Unlike haemangiomas they are usually present at birth and do not disappear with time.  There are many different types of vascular malformation and they are classified according to the types of vessels from which they are made.  Some of the most commonest types are described below.

Port Wine Stains

These birthmarks commonly involve the face and give the skin a red, wine or purplish colour.  They consist of dilated small blood vessels beneath the layer of the skin.  They are occasionally associated with other conditions.  Laser treatment can be very effective for treating the visible effects of port wine stains. 

Venous malformations

Venous malformations consist of an area of abnormal veins.  They can vary greatly in appearance and if they require treatment are often treated by sclerotherapy or surgery.

Arterial and Arterio-venous Malformations

These malformations involve abnormally connected arteries and veins and can be very difficult to treat.  Sclerotherapy, interventional radiological techniques and surgery may all have a role to play in the management of these lesions.

Lymphatic Malformations

These malformations involving the lymph system are also called lymphangiomas or cystic hygromas.  Their appearance and effects are very variable and there are many surgical and non-surgical ways of treating them.  Treatment of complex vascular anomalies needs to be undertaken by a multi-disciplinary team including plastic surgeons, dermatologists, interventional and diagnostic radiologists, clinical nurse specialists and sometimes orthopaedic and paediatric surgeons.  David Dunaway is a member of the Vascular Anomalies Team at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children.