Diagnosis is based primarily on the appearance of the skin lesion . Nevus flammeus type of hemangiomas may require no treatment unless they are disfiguring or psychologically distressing, or unless they develop new symptoms such as pain or change in appearance. Oral or injected cortisone may be used to reduce the size of a hemangioma that is growing rapidly and obstructing vision or vital structures. They are usually not treated unless symptomatic , or until a child is at least school age. However, port wine stains on the face should be treated at a young age with a yellow pulsed dye laser for best results and to prevent the often profound psychosocial problems caused by the port wine stain .
Many birthmarks resolve spontaneously by the time a child is school age, but some are permanent.
There is no known way to prevent birthmarks. The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. All rights reserved.