Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: June 26, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Congenital Hemangioma of the Face and Back

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Infantile Hemangioma (IH): Given the description of a congenital hemangioma covering the upper lip, nose, philtrum, and the presence of similar lesions on the back, which could be either superficial hemangiomas or port-wine stains, infantile hemangioma is a strong consideration. The fact that the upper lip is now ulcerated and appears deficient suggests the possibility of an ulcerated infantile hemangioma, which is a known complication.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Port-Wine Stain (PWS): The mention of lesions on the back that could be either congenital superficial hemangiomas or port-wine stains makes PWS a likely diagnosis for those specific lesions. However, the ulceration and appearance of deficiency on the upper lip are less typical for PWS.
  • Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM): Although less common, AVMs can present at birth and may have a similar appearance to hemangiomas. The ulceration and potential tissue deficiency could be indicative of an AVM, especially if there's a history of rapid growth or other systemic symptoms.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Kasabach-Merritt Syndrome (KMS): This is a rare condition associated with a vascular tumor (often a kaposiform hemangioendothelioma or tufted angioma) that leads to severe thrombocytopenia and coagulopathy. Although the primary description doesn't strongly suggest KMS, any congenital vascular lesion with signs of ulceration or potential for bleeding should prompt consideration of this diagnosis due to its severe implications.
  • PHACE(S) Syndrome: This syndrome involves the presence of a large hemangioma, typically on the face or neck, in association with other anomalies such as cardiac, ocular, or cerebral defects. Given the location and extent of the hemangioma described, PHACE(S) syndrome is a critical diagnosis not to miss due to its potential systemic implications.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Kaposiform Hemangioendothelioma: A rare, locally aggressive vascular tumor that can present at birth. It's known for its potential to cause Kasabach-Merritt syndrome but can also present with ulceration and tissue destruction.
  • Tufted Angioma: Another rare vascular tumor that can present congenitally and may be associated with Kasabach-Merritt syndrome. It often appears as a firm, indurated plaque and can have a similar appearance to infantile hemangioma but tends to be more persistent and less likely to regress.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.