Strawberry haemangioma is a type of birthmark that appears as a red, raised spot on the skin. The pronunciation of this term can be confusing due to its spelling. The word haemangioma is spelled with an "ae" digraph, which represents a long vowel sound in IPA phonetic transcription. The correct pronunciation is [hiːmænˈdʒiːəmə], with emphasis on the second syllable. Despite the tricky spelling, understanding the pronunciation of this word can help medical professionals and patients alike communicate effectively about this common condition.
Strawberry haemangioma, also known as infantile haemangioma or capillary haemangioma, is a common noncancerous growth that occurs in infants and young children. It is a type of vascular birthmark characterized by a bright red to purplish bump or lesion on the skin. The name derives from the propensity of these growths to resemble the surface of a strawberry.
Strawberry haemangiomas typically appear within the first few weeks after birth and rapidly grow in size, usually reaching their peak in the first year of life. They are caused by an abnormal collection of blood vessels beneath the skin, leading to an overgrowth of tissue. Although the exact cause of strawberry haemangiomas is unknown, they are believed to arise due to various factors, including genetic predisposition and an increased production of certain growth factors.
Most strawberry haemangiomas are harmless and tend to resolve on their own over time, with the majority disappearing completely by the age of 7 to 10 years. However, certain cases may require medical intervention if they cause functional or aesthetic concerns or if complications such as ulceration, infection, bleeding, or obstruction of vital structures arise.
Treatment options for strawberry haemangiomas include oral medications such as beta-blockers or corticosteroids, topical therapies, laser therapy, or, in rarer cases, surgical removal. Close monitoring is usually recommended to ensure the growth does not cause any adverse effects, and the child's physician should be consulted for proper evaluation and management.
The word "strawberry haemangioma" is a medical term used to describe a type of birthmark known as an infantile haemangioma. The etymology of this term can be broken down as follows:
1. Strawberry: The term "strawberry" refers to the appearance of the birthmark, which is typically bright red and raised, resembling the texture and color of a strawberry.
2. Haemangioma: The term "haemangioma" is derived from two Greek words: "haima" meaning blood, and "angium" meaning vessel. A haemangioma is a benign tumor made up of tangled blood vessels.
So, "strawberry haemangioma" essentially describes a birthmark that looks like a strawberry due to the presence of an abnormal growth of blood vessels.