Occasionally the mass can become swollen, tender and discolored for a few days to weeks. This usually represents clotting of the slow moving blood within the venous malformation that blocks the normal flow of blood causing the venous Malformation to swell and become tender. Venous malformations can be confused with the more common Hemangiomas or the less common Arteriovenous malformations Usually the distinction can be made on physical exam and by history. Tests are often needed to tell the extent to the venous malformation and to confirm the diagnosis. They can include, MRI, CT, doppler or occasionally angiography.
Venous malformations grow slowly over many years.
The malformed veins have slow flow and do not drain. Most Venous Malformations do not need to be treated. Medical treatments are often effective and include aspirin and supportive devices. Recurrent pain from clotting of the blood in the venous malformations can often be avoided by an aspirin twice a week. Surgical treatments can be used to remove the mass of the venous malformation.