Why Do Hemangiomas Ulcerate?

Ulceration occurs in 10-15% of infantile hemangiomas, especially combined superficial and deep lesions. The cause of ulceration is not clear but may be a result of outstripped blood supply to the overlying skin or secondary to the action of certain cytokines.

What causes hemangioma to ulcerate?

The exact cause of ulcerated cavernous hemangiomas is not known. A spontaneous genetic abnormality is present in some hemangiomas, and occasionally they may be found in other family members. They do not appear to be inherited from parents or caused by drugs taken pregnancy or other environmental exposures.

Can hemangiomas ulcerate?

Some sites, such as the lower lip, neck, and anogenital regions, put hemangiomas at greater risk of ulceration. Mixed hemangiomas and segmental hemangiomas are also more likely to ulcerate.