Many people live with different vascular abnormalities or vascular lesions that can present in several ways. If you are interested in improving the appearance of your vascular abnormality, our team of board-certified dermatologists at Greenbrae Dermatology can help.

What are Vascular Lesions?

Vascular lesions are common irregularities of the skin and underlying tissues. Many vascular lesions occur without any family history and are not inherited. The signs and symptoms of vascular lesions will depend on the type of lesion; however, they can cause swelling, bleeding, pain, and more. There are many different types of vascular lesions and many different types of treatment options.

Common forms of vascular lesions include:

• Port-Wine Stains: Vascular birthmarks caused by the abnormal development of blood vessels in the skin.
• Rosacea: A common skin condition that causes visible blood vessels in the face.
• Telangiectasia: A condition where widened blood vessels cause small red lines or patterns on the skin.
• Pyogenic Granuloma: Small, red, raised bumps on the skin caused by a high number of blood vessels.
• Venous Lakes: Small, blue or purple lightly elevated papules.
• Hemangiomas: Noncancerous growths of blood vessels found commonly in infants.
• Spider Veins: Small, dilated blood vessels on the skin or mucous membranes.

The majority of vascular lesions can be diagnosed through a physical examination. Imaging tests are sometimes needed which can provide additional information about the extent of the lesion and help to confirm the diagnosis. A growth may also be biopsied in some cases.

Vascular Lesion treatments

The treatment option that is right for you will be dependent on the type of vascular lesion you have. Our team will work with you to determine the best line of action for you and your condition. Some of the most common treatment options for vascular lesions include:

• Medication: Patients may be prescribed medications such as oral corticosteroids or oral blood pressure medications. Corticosteroid injections may also be effective.
• Surgery: Excision is sometimes required, which often requires removal with a margin of normal skin.
• Laser Therapy: There are a number of laser treatments that can help to improve some vascular lesions.
• Sclerotherapy: This treatment involves injections of a chemical solution into veins to cause these vessels to shut down, eventually leading to the shrinkage of the vessel.

Individuals with vascular lesions can often benefit from treatment. The best way to properly diagnose and treat your lesion is to schedule a consultation appointment at our office.