Criteria for referral to public hospital service
- Five or more haemangiomas
- Haemangioma involving the eyes, ears, mouth or perineum
- Large haemangiomas (greater than 3 centimetres)
- Ulcerated haemangioma
- Other birthmarks causing significant cosmetic concern (e.g. on the face) or functional impairment.
Information to be included in the referral
Information that must be provided
- Findings on physical examination
- Details of onset, duration, site, number of haemangioma and if the haemangioma(s) are ulcerated, bleeding or still growing
- Child’s age.
Provide if available
- Colour photograph(s) – with patient’s consent where secure image transfer, identification and storage is possible. These images often assist with identifying clinical urgency and the most appropriate specialist clinic or service
- Statement about the parent(s) or guardian’s interest in having surgical treatment if that is a possible intervention
- If the child identifies as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
- If the child is neurodiverse, gender diverse or has a disability
- If the child has a preferred language other than English and if they rely on cultural or linguistic support (e.g. Aboriginal cultural support, an interpreter)
- If the child lives in out-of-home care (foster care, kinship care, permanent care or residential care)
- If the child is aged 14-18 years, do they consent that their health information is shared with their parent, guardian or carer.
Additional comments
The Minimum information for referrals to non-admitted specialist services(opens in a new window) lists the information that should be included in a referral request.
Prompt referral for infantile haemangioma is required for timely treatment.
Note there are dermatology statewide referral criteria for Birthmarks(opens in a new window) in children.
Where appropriate and available the referral may be directed to an alternative specialist clinic or service.
Referral to a public hospital is not appropriate for
- Birthmarks that have stopped growing or have been adequately managed
- Other haemangiomas.
Updated