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Updated: Apr 28, 2026
Whole-mount Immunohistochemical Analysis for Embryonic Limb Skin Vasculature: a Model System to Study Vascular Branching Morphogenesis in Embryo
Published on: May 20, 2011
The "biker-glove" pattern of segmental infantile hemangiomas on the hands and feet
Nicole A Weitz1, Michelle L Bayer2, Eulalia Baselga3
1Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York.
Background:
Infantile hemangiomas (IH) on the extremities have not been systematically studied.
Objective:
We sought to describe the clinical characteristics and distribution patterns of IH affecting acral surfaces and to explore the relationship among these patterns, limb development, and IH pathogenesis.
Methods:
This was a retrospective multicenter cohort study. Photographic archives from 4 tertiary pediatric dermatology referral centers were searched for patients with IH larger than 1 cm and involving 1 or more digit. Hemangioma location, distribution, and morphologic subtype were recorded. Medical records were reviewed for demographic and clinical data.
Results:
In all, 73 patients were identified. The most common IH pattern resembled that of a "biker glove" (73%), followed by localized IH on the distal digits (14%), segmental IH extending over the distal digits (8%), and intermediate patterns (5%). Overall, 63% of acral IH were segmental, 26% indeterminate, and 11% localized. Five patients had associated structural anomalies. Complications were noted in 33% of cases.
Limitations:
Limitations were retrospective study design; selection bias based on recall and photography; documentation and follow-up were not standardized across institutions; and treatment information may not reflect current approaches.
Conclusion:
Acral IH display specific patterns and are associated with a relatively high risk of ulceration.
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