Vascular tumors are abnormal growths that originate from blood or lymphatic vessels. Their symptoms depend on location, size, growth speed, and whether they are benign or malignant. Common manifestations include:
- Visible skin changes
Red-to-purple raised patches, nodules, or “strawberry” marks that may enlarge rapidly during infancy and then slowly regress . - Localized swelling or lump
A soft or firm mass under the skin or within muscles that can expand and distort nearby tissues . - Pain or tenderness
Intermittent aching or constant sharp pain if the tumor presses on nerves, ulcerates, or becomes thrombosed . - Bleeding or ulceration
Superficial lesions may crack and bleed with minor trauma; ulcerated areas can form crusts or scars . - Skin discoloration and warmth
A bluish hue, prominent veins, or increased local temperature suggest high blood flow within the lesion . - Functional impairment
Tumors near joints, eyes, airway, or digestive tract can limit movement, cause proptosis, produce wheezing, or lead to bleeding in the stool . - Neurological signs
When lesions involve the brain or spinal cord, patients may develop headaches, weakness, numbness, or vision problems . - Systemic symptoms (malignant forms)
Fatigue, weight loss, or night sweats may accompany aggressive tumors such as angiosarcoma or Kaposi sarcoma .
Any rapidly enlarging, painful, or ulcerated vascular lesion merits prompt imaging and specialist review to exclude malignancy and prevent complications.
| Symptom | Typical Features | When to Suspect Malignancy |
|---|---|---|
| Skin mark | Red-purple, raised, well-defined | Rapid growth after childhood |
| Swelling | Soft/firm mass, may pulsate | >5 cm, deep to fascia |
| Pain | Intermittent or constant | Night pain, needs analgesia |
| Bleeding | Minor trauma → ulcer | Recurrent, heavy, or unhealed |
| Discoloration | Blue, warm, dilated veins | Sudden darkening or necrosis |
| Function | Limited joint/eye/airway use | Progressive loss |
| Neurology | Headache, weakness, numbness | New focal deficits |
| Systemic | Fatigue, fever, weight loss | B-symptoms + large mass |