Hypertrophic hemangioma vs. hemangiopericytoma

A case of benign vascular tumor of the ankle is presented, along with a history and classification of hemangiomas and hemangiopericytomas. The primary diagnosis was hypertrophic hemangioma or hemangiopericytoma. Differentiating these tumors was difficult because staining techniques did not readily separate endothelial from pericytic cells. This is a discussion of two vascular tumors, both of which are uncommon in the foot, and their similarities and differences are contrasted. Clinical and pathologic presentations, operative treatments, and further differential diagnosis are also discussed.