Patient's question:
A 4-year-old girl with a vascular malformation in the right lower forehead. The abnormal area appears purple externally and blue internally. What is the most effective treatment that does not affect appearance? Can it be completely eradicated?Doctor's answer:
Based on your child's condition, it is considered to be a hemangioma, which is more common in limbs, neck, and appears as patches with a bright red color, clear boundaries, and fades when pressed. This condition is more prevalent in girls and may be related to estrogen, as the hemangioma decreases in size as the child's skin grows, affecting aesthetics. Around the age of eight, a small portion of hemangiomas may expand, but some will not. Therefore, for safety, early treatment is recommended, as the earlier it is treated, the smaller the area will be.Based on your condition, radioactive isotope ointment can be considered. The treatment utilizes the β-ray emission of nuclides to produce radiation biological effects on the local lesion, achieving the therapeutic goal, with no impact on surrounding normal tissues or the whole body. After healing, there is usually no scar. During treatment, modeling clay is used to protect the surrounding normal skin, as its effect is localized and has no systemic adverse reactions. It is a relatively safe and effective treatment method.
Laser treatment is used for smaller hemangiomas, but it is prone to scarring, so it is not suitable for the face.