Importance of GLUT1 in differential diagnosis of vascular anomalies

Abstract

Vascular anomalies (VAs) include a group of distinct lesions, such as vascular system congenital malformations, as well as benign and malignant vascular tumors. These lesions may present similar clinical and histopathological features, leading to mistaken diagnoses and incorrect treatment choices. It is important that professionals responsible for monitoring the development of VAs conduct precise investigations and use the appropriate terminology. The human glucose transporter protein isoform 1 (GLUT1) has been proposed as a tool to aid in differential diagnosis between different VAs, given that it is a sensitive and specific marker for identification of infantile hemangiomas (HIs) in any organ. This article presents a review of the literature on this protein as an effective tool for identification and possible differential diagnosis between several VAs.