Distinguishing between hemangiomas and vascular malformations is often difficult, and proper diagnosis is essential to ensure correct treatment.   

Who We Are

The Vascular Birthmark Clinic staff at Hackensack University Medical Center consists of hematologists/oncologists, dermatologists, plastic surgeons, psychologists, advanced practice nurses, social workers, and creative arts therapists that work with families to determine the best course of treatment for children with vascular birthmarks.  The clinic’s physician staff includes:

• John Gregory, M.D., Co-Director of The Vascular Birthmark Clinic & Member of the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Section
• Helen Shin, M.D., Co-Director of The Vascular Birthmark Clinic
• David Goldberg, M.D., Dermatologic Laser Specialist
• Joel Rakow, M.D., Radiologist
• Robert Wallerstein, M.D., Geneticist
• Noreen Quinlan, RN, APN, C., Pediatric Oncology - Advanced Practice Nurse
• Child Life Therapist
• Physicians covering such specialties as ear, nose, and throat; gastroenterology; neurology; ophthalmology; and plastic surgery. 

What Are Hemangiomas?

Hemangiomas are birthmarks that are visible at birth or shortly thereafter, and generally grow during the first 12 months of life then begin a long slow regression known as involution. The cause of hemangiomas is unknown, but are found predominantly in Caucasians, and are five times more common in females than males. The three different types of hemangiomas are as follows:

• Superficial hemangiomas appear flat, reddish in color, and can be any shape or size. While some are small and hardly noticeable, others are disfiguring.
• Compound hemangiomas grow deep and also have the superficial features listed above.  
• Internal hemangiomas occasionally occur and can effect structures such as the liver and airways.

What Are Vascular Malformations?

Vascular malformations are vascular lesions that are often misdiagnosed as hemangiomas.  They are present at birth (although not always noticed), and will grow slowly throughout life without the regression process as with hemangiomas.   There are several types of vascular malformations including those of the veins, arteries, and lymphatic system. 

Treatment Options

Proper diagnosis is the first step towards correct treatment.  Treatment not only concentrates on the physical aspects, but the psychosocial effect of the disease on the child. While many lesions do not require treatment as they will eventually regress, there are psycho-social effects that can be avoided with intervention at a young age in some cases. 

Forms of physical treatment include: 

• Medication
• Surgical Procedures
• Laser Therapy Treatment
• Radiology Procedures

Other services include individual and group support and creative arts therapy.

Where We Are Located

Vascular Birthmark Clinic patients are seen in The Reuten Clinic which is located in The DON IMUS-WFAN Pediatric Center for Tomorrows Children, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ.  For more information, please call (201) 996-5437.