Growths and malformations of the vessels (angiomas) are collections of abnormally dense blood or lymph vessels, usually located in and below the skin, that cause red or purple discolorations.
Many growths and malformations of the vessels appear at birth or shortly afterward.
Doctors usually diagnose these growths and malformations by their typical appearance.
Treatment depends on the type of growth or malformation present.
(See also Overview of Skin Growths.)
Growths and malformations of the vessels include
Some appear at birth or soon afterward, and may be referred to as birthmarks.
These different growths and malformations are usually recognized by their appearance, so biopsies are rarely necessary.
Up to one third of all newborns have some type of growth or malformation of the vessels (vascular birthmark), most of which disappear by themselves.
Treatment is sometimes needed depending on the growth or malformation.
