Umbilical cord and visceral hemangiomas diagnosed in the neonatal period

BACKGROUND Umbilical cord hemangioma is very rare and may not be detected prenatally. However, it should be considered in differential diagnosis with other umbilical masses because it can cause significant morbidity. METHODS We report the case of a newborn referred with suspected omphalitis and umbilical hernia. RESULTS Physical examination showed an irreducible umbilical tumor, the size of olive, with dubious secretion. The initial suspected diagnosis was urachal or omphalomesenteric duct remnants. Abdominal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging showed an umbilical and a mesenteric mass. Tumor markers were negative. A definitive diagnosis of umbilical cord and intestinal hemangioma was established after surgical excision and histologic examination of the umbilical mass. Propranolol was prescribed due to the extent of the intestinal lesion. CONCLUSION This report highlights the diagnostic challenges of hemangiomas in unusual locations. Apart from the rarity of these tumors, few tests are available to guide diagnosis, and surgery and histologic examination are generally required for a definitive diagnosis. Finally, it is essential to rule out associated malformations and hemangiomas in other locations.