Information
| Vascular Anomalies |
| The National Organization of Vascular Anomalies is a patient support, advocacy and educational agency for those affected by hemangioma, vascular malformation, rare benign tumors and many related syndromes. Traditionally these tumors and malformations have been called birthmarks. Medicine and science today dictate that they are so much more. |
| Vascular Anomalies: More Than a Birthmark |
| Vascular Anomalies include Hemangioma and Vascular Malformations. It has been estimated that up to 60% of all vascular anomalies are misdiagnosed, often resulting in inadequate and inappropriate treatment. |
| Hemangioma is the most common benign tumor of infancy and children. Most develop in the first few weeks of life. These are called Infantile Hemangioma. Others are formed at birth and are called congenital hemangioma. Hemangioma occurs in 4-10% of all children, and are more common in females then males. |
| Vascular Malformations are abnormally developed vessels that can occur in any of the blood vessels or lymphatic vessels. Vascular Malformations are always present at birth but often do not become evident until later in life. |
| Hemangioma and Vascular Malformations are often confused and misdiagnosed. This leads to frustration for the parents and the families of those affected. The National Organization of Vascular Anomalies- NOVA was founded to provide assistance to those individuals affected by hemangioma, vascular malformation and all related syndromes. |
| One in ten children are born with a congenital vascular lesion. Approximately 50-60% of these children will require medical intervention.
NOVA provides this information as a resource. It is not intended to engage in the practice of medicine or to replace the physician. NOVA does not claim to have medical knowlege. NOVA does not endorse any particular physician, treating facility or treatment protocol. In all cases NOVA, the NOVA Board of Directors and associates recommends that you seek the opinion of a physician experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of hemangioma and vascular malformations. |
