Vascular Anomalies Clinic

Choosing Children’s National for Vascular Anomalies Care

As the only hospital in Washington, D.C., dedicated exclusively to caring for kids with vascular anomalies, highlights of our program include:

• Precise diagnosis. Our pediatric specialists accurately diagnose your child’s vascular condition and work together to provide the most appropriate treatment.
• Expertise. Our clinic is one of only a few in the region offering multidisciplinary care, meaning your child’s treatment plan is created by a coordinated team that may include pediatric dermatologists, plastic surgeons, interventional radiologists, hematologists, otolaryngologists and genetic specialists. In addition to our multidisciplinary Vascular Anomaly Clinic, we also host a monthly clinic where our pediatric surgeon evaluates and treats vascular-related conditions such as lymphedema, varicose veins, leg swelling, discoloration in the limbs and poor circulation. In addition, Children's National is the only area hospital to guarantee that a fellowship-trained pediatric anesthesiologist always administers anesthesia for all patients.

Understanding Vascular Anomalies

Vascular anomalies can vary widely in appearance and location. Some develop deep beneath the skin and may not be visible, while others appear on the surface and may affect areas such as the face, legs or arms. These conditions can occur as single lesions or as part of a broader syndrome that involves bones, muscles or internal organs. To accurately identify the type and extent of each vascular anomaly, our team uses advanced imaging studies such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). 

Some vascular anomalies are caused by genetic mutations that occur only in the affected area. These are known as somatic mutations. Unlike germline mutations, which are present in every cell of the body, somatic mutations affect only a subset of cells. Researchers have identified more than 40 genetic mutations associated with vascular anomalies and that number continues to grow. Commonly involved genes include PIK3CA, TEK, TIE2, mTOR, EPHB4, MAP2K1, TGF, PTEN, VEGFC and RASA1.

The discovery of these specific genetic changes has led to the development of targeted medical therapies, offering new treatment options for many patients. 

Treating Vascular Anomalies

Depending on the type of vascular anomaly and its effect on the child, some anomalies benefit from medical treatment. Treatment options include:

• Embolization
• Laser therapy
• Medications
• Sclerotherapy
• Surgical excision

During your visit to the Vascular Anomaly Clinic, our team of specialists will review your child’s condition and discuss the most appropriate treatment options with you.