Angiogenic factors.

Abstract

The recent reports regarding angiogenesis, namely the development of new blood vessels from preexisting vessels thanks to migration and differentiation of endothelial cells, are interesting for physicians such as dermatologists and pediatricians who face the problem of hemangioma. The latter is usually characterized by a benign, self-healing clinical course. However, in about 10% of cases, hemangioma can be associated with severe problems and require a treatment, in order to save the function of an organ or life. Unfortunately, its pathogenesis has not been yet fully clarified, preventing the introduction of more effective and well tolerated treatments. Angiogenesis is a basic process in the physiology of the organism and even in numerous pathological disorders, included tumors. Its study is thus a new exciting field of research and may lead to important clinical results such as a new therapeutical approach to severe hemangioma.