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A Comprehensive Review of the Current Systemic Medical Treatment Landscape for Vascular Malformations
Claire Fason1, Alexander J Jafari2,3,4, Adelaide A Hebert2,3,4,5
1UTHealth McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA.
Insights
Dermatologists manage vascular anomalies, classifying them as tumors or malformations. Advances in medical treatments like beta-blockers offer improved outcomes for vascular lesions, reducing surgical needs.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Vascular Biology
- Medical Therapeutics
Background:
- Vascular anomalies are classified into tumors and malformations.
- Hemangiomas are the most common vascular tumor with established treatments.
- Vascular malformations require distinct therapeutic approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current medical treatments for vascular anomalies.
- To guide dermatologists in managing vascular malformations.
- To highlight recent advances in therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current medical management strategies.
- Analysis of pharmacological and technological advancements.
- Synthesis of treatment guidelines for vascular lesions.
Main Results:
- Systemic and topical beta-blockers are standard for hemangioma treatment.
- Medical therapies are increasingly replacing surgery for many vascular anomalies.
- Recent advances improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Conclusions:
- Dermatologists are key in diagnosing and managing vascular anomalies.
- Current medical treatments offer effective alternatives to surgery.
- This review provides a guide to the evolving landscape of vascular malformation therapy.
Abstract:
Dermatologists play a central role in the diagnosis and medical management of vascular anomalies. Currently, vascular anomalies are categorized into vascular tumors and vascular malformations. The latest designations for the numerous types of vascular lesions are delineated in the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies website (www.issva.org). The arenas for the therapy for hemangiomas, the most common vascular tumor, have been studied extensively and have been recognized as standard of care by the Society for Pediatric Dermatology, the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Options for hemangioma treatment include systemic beta-blockers such as propranolol, atenolol, and nadolol, and the topical beta-blocker timolol. Vascular malformations and overgrowth syndromes encompass a separate set of treatment regimens. Recent pharmacological and technological advances in the medical management of vascular anomalies have decreased the need for surgery in many patients while also leading to improved outcomes and quality of life. This review will guide the dermatologist through the current medical treatment landscape for vascular malformations.
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