Abstract

Most birthmarks are pigmented or vascular anomalies, which arise because of developmental errors during early embryonic or foetal life. People with large congenital melanocytic naevi (CMN) have an increased risk of melanoma, neurocutaneous melanosis and neurological disorders. Congenital vascular anomalies consist of vascular tumours and vascular malformations. Infantile hemangiomas (IH) are tumours with a unique clinical picture and natural course of the disease. Most patients with IH do not need special anti-tumour therapy, but some require such treatment because of complications of the disease. Vascular malformations do not regress and treatment is required if they cause health problems. Lymphangioma is the most common congenital vascular malformation in children. Large CMN are always disfi guring, but an aesthetic defect can also be an important burden for children with IH or with vascular malformations. Children with large CMN, complications of IH or functional disturbance because of vascular malformations require the professional care of a specialized tertiary team, and continuous psychosocial support provided by their primary care paediatrician.

Key words: large congenital melanocytic naevus - infantile hemangioma – lymphangioma – specialized tertiary team – comprehensive care.