Lumps and bumps in children—when to worry: recent trends in recognition and pathology of hemangiomas of infancy and Spitz nevi

Abstract

Hemangiomas are common, and most lesions are benign. Careful attention needs to be paid to these lesions; however, because their growth can be unpredictable, they can have important complications and can serve as markers of underlying malformations. The consequences of hemangiomas are extensive and can be challenging to recognize.

Recent knowledge of the pathogenesis and diagnosis of these lesions has helped raise awareness of their classification and clinical significance. Spitz nevi can also be a challenging lesion to diagnose and treat, although for different reasons. These are lesions composed of melanocytes with clinical and histopathological findings that we easily misdiagnosed and can have significant implications for patient care.

Both of these important lesions in infants and children are reviewed in further detail with particular attention to recent trends.