Vascular anomalies in adults

A vascular anomaly is any of a range of lesions from a simple birthmark to a large tumor that may be disfiguring. They are caused by a disorder of the vascular system. These defects are characterized by an increased number of vessels, and vessels that are both enlarged and sinuous. Some vascular anomalies are congenital , others appear within weeks to years after birth, and others are acquired by trauma or during pregnancy. Inherited vascular anomalies are also described and often present with a number of lesions that increase with age. Vascular anomalies can also be a part of a syndrome.

These arteries may be those carrying blood to the body, to the lungs, or both. They are most easily broken into three main groups: vascular rings, the innominate compression syndrome, and pulmonary arterial slings. Vascular rings include a number of anatomic variations of abnormal development of the aortic arch complex resulting in the formation of a ring encircling both the trachea and esophagus. The aorta originally develops as a series of arches with bilateral symmetry. By the end of the second month of fetal development, parts of the arch complex have regressed leaving the "typical" anatomy of a left aortic arch with three arch branches innominate, left common carotid and left subclavian and a left-sided ductus arteriosus from the proximal left pulmonary artery to the aorta in the general vicinity of the left subclavian artery origin.

Metrics details. The diagnosis and treatment of vascular anomalies are a large part of the caseload for paediatric interventional radiologists. Although many of the principles of sclerotherapy and embolisation are the same in adult and paediatric practice, there are some key differences in the approach for children, including some longer term thinking about managing these chronic diseases and their impact on a growing child. Vascular tumours are not often seen in adult IR practice and the rarest can be life threatening; knowledge of the commonest types and the role IR can play in their management can be instrumental in ensuring that children get appropriate treatment in a timely manner.

Metrics details. Vascular lesions have a varied appearance and can commonly occur in the head and neck. A majority of these lesions are cutaneous and congenital; however, some may be acquired and malignant. The presentation and clinical history of patients presenting with head and neck lesions can be used to guide further imaging, which can provide important diagnostic and therapeutic considerations.