Differentiation of vascular birthmarks by MR imaging: An investigation of hemangiomas, venous and lymphatic malformations

Abstract

A reliable differentiation between hemangiomas, venous and lymphatic malformations in childhood is not possible by standard MR sequences alone. Contrast media may be helpful as lymphatic malformations show no contrast enhancement. The main role of MR imaging is to determine the local extent or infiltration of deeper tissue layers and narrow the differential diagnosis of other soft tissue tumors.