Hemangiomatosis of the liver in infants

Seven patients with hemangiomatosis of the liver are presented together with 100 cases reported in the literature. Six of seven patients survived; four with supportive treatment only. Follow-up is from 2 to 11 yr. Hepatomegaly, heart failure, and cutaneous angiomas constitute the classical clinical triad. Arteriography is the best method for diagnosis; biopsy should be avoided. Clinical features and histologic examination of these benign vascular tumors seem to confirm the theory that hemangioendothelioma and hemangioma represent only different developmental stages of one disease. These lesions can regress spontaneously if left alone. Despite contrary prevailing opinion, the authors recommend nonoperative treatment as the first choice of the clinician.