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Dermoscopy of kaposiform hemangioendothelioma: a case report
Filomena Barbato1, Maria Maddalena Nicoletti2, Gaetano Licata3
1Department of Pediatric Dermatology, Santobono-Pausilipon Children Hospital, Naples.
Abstract:
Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE) is a rare vascular tumor of infancy, characterized by an infiltrative, firm, and ill-defined plaque that may be associated with the Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon. While the diagnosis is primarily clinical and histopathological, dermoscopy may provide valuable insights into its microstructural features. We present the case of a newborn with congenital KHE involving the lumbar and right gluteal region, focusing on its dermoscopic characteristics. The lesion exhibited a homogeneous, grayish-blue background with no discernible vascular structures, a feature that may aid in differentiating KHE from other vascular tumors. The findings contribute to the understanding of dermoscopic patterns in KHE, highlighting its potential role in early diagnosis.
Insights
Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE), a rare infantile vascular tumor, presents unique dermoscopic features. A homogeneous, grayish-blue background without visible vessels aids in differentiating KHE from other vascular lesions.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pediatric Oncology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE) is a rare vascular tumor typically affecting infants.
- It often presents as an infiltrative plaque and can be associated with Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon.
- Current diagnosis relies on clinical and histopathological examination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the specific dermoscopic characteristics of congenital Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma.
- To evaluate the utility of dermoscopy in differentiating KHE from other vascular tumors in infants.
- To contribute to the understanding of KHE's microstructural features via dermoscopy.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a newborn with congenital KHE.
- Detailed clinical and dermoscopic examination of the affected lumbar and right gluteal region.
- Analysis of dermoscopic findings, focusing on background color and vascular structures.
Main Results:
- The congenital KHE lesion exhibited a homogeneous, grayish-blue background.
- No discernible vascular structures were observed under dermoscopy.
- This distinct pattern may help distinguish KHE from other vascular tumors.
Conclusions:
- Dermoscopy offers valuable insights into the microstructural features of Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma.
- The observed dermoscopic pattern (homogeneous grayish-blue background, no visible vessels) may aid in the early diagnosis and differentiation of KHE.
- Further studies are warranted to confirm these dermoscopic findings in a larger cohort.
