Medical and genetic aspects of vascular anomalies

This manuscript provides an updated review of clinical and scientific or genetic updates in vascular anomalies, with an emphasis on essential information for the interventional radiologist. Citations include concise reviews and reliable websites which provide supplementary background. This manuscript elucidates the following: (1) not every vascular lesion is a hemangioma, (2) the Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon is not seen in association with typical hemangiomas, (3) many new basic research and genetic findings in vascular anomalies may influence the clinical evaluation and diagnosis (as well as provide rationale for future targeted therapies which may successfully ameliorate or eradicate these conditions), (4) it is essential to communicate with the clinician and patient to understand the history, physical findings, and best approach to evaluation and management, and (5) multiple specialists are often involved, and multidisciplinary teams of physicians and ancillary healthcare workers often collaborate.