Capillary hemangiomas, a type of benign tumor, is a tricky word to spell. Using IPA phonetic transcription, the word can be broken down into "kæpəlɛri hɪmændʒi'oməz". The "c" sound is spelled with a "k" because it represents a velar sound. The "i" in "capillary" is pronounced like "eye" because it is a long vowel sound. "Hemangiomas" is broken down into "hɪmændʒi'oməz" with a stress on the second syllable. This word may be challenging to spell, but understanding its pronunciation makes it easier to remember.
Capillary hemangiomas, also known as infantile hemangiomas or strawberry birthmarks, are benign vascular tumors that primarily affect infants and children. They are characterized by an abnormal overgrowth of blood vessels, specifically capillaries, causing a reddish or purplish growth on the skin.
Capillary hemangiomas are typically noticeable at birth or appear within the first few weeks of life. They commonly occur on the head and neck regions, but can also develop on other parts of the body. These hemangiomas may start as a small, flat red mark, resembling a bruise, before rapidly growing over the course of several months. They often reach their maximum size by the age of 6-12 months, and subsequently start shrinking and fading away over several years. In most cases, capillary hemangiomas completely resolve by the age of 5-10 years.
Although the exact cause of capillary hemangiomas is unknown, research suggests that certain genetic and hormonal factors play a role in their development. They are believed to result from an abnormal growth of blood vessels during fetal development.
Treatment for capillary hemangiomas may be necessary if they are in a sensitive location, obstructing vision, or causing functional problems. Various treatment options are available, including medication, laser therapy, surgical removal, or the use of compression garments. However, in many cases, no treatment is required, as the hemangioma resolves spontaneously without causing any significant complications. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is typically recommended to ensure proper management and to rule out any associated conditions.
The word "capillary hemangioma" is derived from the combination of two terms: "capillary" and "hemangioma".
1. Capillary: The term "capillary" comes from the Latin word "capillaris", which means "hair". In anatomy, capillaries are the smallest blood vessels that connect arteries and veins. They are called capillaries because they are thin and narrow, resembling hair strands.
2. Hemangioma: The term "hemangioma" is a combination of two Greek words. "Haima" means "blood", and "angeio" means "blood vessel". A hemangioma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that consists of an abnormal overgrowth of blood vessels.
So, "capillary hemangiomas" are tumors composed of an excess growth of blood vessels, specifically capillaries.