Non-Involuting Congenital Hemangioma (NICH)

Non-involuting congenital hemangioma (NICH) is a clinical term that describes a specific type of hemangioma. It is important to understand the difference between a NICH and infantile immature hemangiomas, as the two are often described as though they are interchangeable. NICH do not typically cover the same expanse of RICH, and there are other distinguishing features distinguished through pathology and immunophenotyping.

Additionally, NICH are typically single malformations that are flat with rounded rather than sharp edges. Colors vary from pink to deep purple, and there are usually tightly grouped thread veins present. The most common locations for NICH to develop are the head or neck, followed by the limbs. Unlike some other types of hemangioma, a NICH will never regress and growth stays proportionate with that of the child, including when weight is gained in most cases.

Diagnosis Methods

Venous blood flow is a key component in the accurate diagnosis of a NICH. One of the main diagnostic tools used is a color Doppler ultrasound, which is able to reveal certain abnormalities. However, many of the indicators of NICH are common among hemangiomas, which is why it is important you take your child to a specialist in vascular malformations. Another challenge in diagnosis is being able to determine whether intermediate sized lesions are NICH or RICH.

Even the medical professionals get it wrong sometimes, so it is important to seek diagnosis from a specialist team. At the Vascular Birthmark Center, we are staffed by a team of medical professionals lead by Dr. Greg Levitin, who is an expert in the field of vascular malformation diagnosis and treatment.

Non-Involuting Congenital Hemangioma (NICH) Treatment

Surgery is the best treatment option for management or removal of NICH. There are risks involved with surgery, especially when lesions are located around the face and neck. Dr. Greg Levitin specializes in both the diagnosis and removal of non-involuting congenital hemangioma, as well as follow-up cosmetic surgery to reduce the appearance of obvious scar tissue.

The prognosis for full recovery from NICH removal is good, and the risk of damage to facial nerves is further reduced at the Vascular Birthmark Center due to Dr. Levitin’s use of an advanced intraoperative nerve monitoring system. As a matter of perspective, most centers report a risk of up to 50% that nerve damage may occur, whereas Dr. Greg Levitin’s procedure results in a less than 1% chance of damage.

For a more accurate assessment of your child’s needs, arrange an evaluation at the Vascular Birthmark Center today. We have offices in both New York and Los Angeles, where our young patients receive the best vascular malformation diagnosis and care in the country. Contact us today to make an appointment.