Vascular anomalies: updates and our understanding

We briefly reviewed the most significant advance in the field of hemangioma and vascular malformation from the second half of 2016 to the first quarter of 2018. Breakthroughs in basic research, genetic discoveries and animal model development have significantly contributed to the classification, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment of vascular anomalies including surgical treatment, endovascular therapies, laser treatment and drug therapies. Here, we have discussed important discoveries and innovative hypotheses in infantile hemangioma, congenital hemangioma, KHE/TA, port-wine stain, venous malformation, lymphatic malformation, arteriovenous malformation and etc. Together, we have proposed future directions to help shaping this field. Key words: Vascular anomalies; Diagnosis; Treatment; Recent updates