An Inside Look at Internal Hemangiomas

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  • AdventHealth
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Health and Wellness
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Finding something unexpected on an imaging test can leave you with more questions than answers. Internal hemangiomas are one of the most common benign growths, and they’re often nothing to worry about. But because they’re often found unexpectedly during routine imaging, it’s helpful to understand what they are and what they mean for your health.

A Closer Look at Common Types of Internal Hemangiomas

A hemangioma forms when a cluster of blood vessels grows within an organ or tissue. Doctors don’t always know exactly why they develop, but they’re typically harmless. Common types of internal hemangiomas include:

  • Choroidal hemangioma: a benign growth in the eye that can affect vision if it causes fluid buildup or pressure on surrounding structures.
  • Hemangioma in the mouth (tongue hemangioma): a vascular growth that can appear on the tongue or inside the mouth, sometimes causing swelling or difficulty with eating or speaking.
  • Hemangioma intraosseous (bone hemangiomas): rare benign tumors that develop within bone, most often in the spine or skull, and are usually found incidentally unless symptoms occur.
  • Liver hemangiomas: the most common type of internal hemangioma that often requires no treatment at all. Even larger ones are typically just monitored unless they cause symptoms.
  • Spinal (vertebral) hemangiomas: also relatively common and usually harmless. However, they can sometimes affect nearby nerves if they grow aggressively.
  • Splenic or abdominal hemangiomas: less common, but are often managed similarly, with observation unless symptoms develop.

Most internal hemangiomas are benign and never cause problems. In fact, many people have them for years without ever knowing.

What is an internal (visceral) hemangioma?

An internal (visceral) hemangioma is a benign cluster of blood vessels that forms inside an organ, such as the liver, spine or brain.

Can internal hemangiomas be dangerous?

Generally, hemangiomas are not cancerous and don't develop into cancer. That’s one of the biggest concerns people have — and fortunately, it’s very rare for these growths to behave aggressively.

That said, the extent of their impact depends on size, location and symptoms. A small hemangioma typically doesn’t require treatment. Larger or more complex ones may be monitored more closely, especially if they press on nearby nerves or organs.

Can hemangiomas cause symptoms?

Most internal hemangiomas are silent. When symptoms do occur, they’re usually related to pressure or size rather than the growth itself.

Depending on where the hemangioma is located, symptoms may include:

  • Back pain or nerve-related symptoms (for spinal hemangiomas)
  • Digestive symptoms, if located in the abdomen
  • Mild discomfort or fullness (common with liver hemangiomas)
  • Pain or pressure in a specific area

Severe complications are uncommon, but persistent pain, rapid changes or new symptoms are always worth discussing with your doctor.

How are internal hemangiomas found?

Many are discovered during routine imaging, such as an ultrasound, CT scan or MRI. If something looks “atypical,” your care team may recommend additional imaging or periodic routine monitoring.

When is treatment needed?

In most cases, no treatment is necessary unless the hemangioma is causing ongoing symptoms, is growing or affecting organ function. However, if treatment is needed, options can include minimally invasive procedures, embolization (blocking blood flow to the growth) or, rarely, surgery.

When to See a Doctor

Even though internal hemangiomas usually aren't a cause for concern, it’s always a good idea to check in with your primary care provider if you notice:

  • Any unexpected changes after a known diagnosis
  • Neurological symptoms like numbness or weakness
  • New symptoms related to digestion, movement or vision
  • Persistent or worsening pain

Your doctor may recommend additional imaging to monitor for changes.

Helping You Feel Whole

While the idea of having internal growth can feel unsettling, with the right care, you can feel confident managing it. If you have questions, your primary care provider can help you find answers and direct you to imaging services for a clearer picture of your health.

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