A hemangioma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor formed from an overgrowth of blood vessels.
These tumors can occur anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on the face, scalp, chest, and back. Hemangiomas can take many forms, ranging from small, red bumps to large, raised, dark-red masses.
Hemangiomas are most commonly found in infants and young children. Up to 10% of infants are born with hemangiomas. However, they can also occur in adults. The cause of hemangiomas is not well understood, but it is believed to be related to an overproduction of cells that form blood vessels. Most hemangiomas will eventually go away on their own, but the process can take several years, and the timing can vary depending on the size and location of the hemangioma. In some cases, however, treatment may be necessary if the hemangioma is causing symptoms or affecting a patients’s appearance.
