Paediatric vascular birthmarks--the psychological impact and the role of the GP.

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.

METHOD: Nineteen families were interviewed with a questionnaire before their assessment at the Sydney Children's Hospital (New South Wales) Vascular Birthmarks Clinic.

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.