Background
This study was designed to investigate the psychosocial impact on
the family of a child with a vascular birthmark and examine the role of
the general practitioner in meeting the family’s needs.
Results
Sixty-eight percent of parents overestimated the size of their child’s
lesion when asked to draw it; 15% said some lifestyle modifications
had to be made to accommodate their child’s condition; 63% were
concerned about their child being teased at school; and 36% had
issues of self blame and embarrassment. Expectations from the clinic
included information (68%), treatment (47%) and reassurance (26%).
Conclusion
Vascular birthmarks are common. Treatment strategies are improving,
but there is a need to adequately address the psychosocial impact
that these lesions have, both on parents and children. The GP is the
carer best placed to meet these needs.
Download the PDF for the full article.
Download article PDF