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Adrenal suppression following intralesional corticosteroids for periocular haemangiomas

C Morkane1, J W Gregory, P Watts

  • 1University Hospital of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK.

Archives of Disease in Childhood
|February 16, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Intralesional corticosteroid injections for infantile periocular haemangiomas commonly cause prolonged adrenal suppression and weight gain issues. Recovery of normal adrenal function is linked to improved weight gain in infants.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Ophthalmology
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Intralesional triamcinolone/betamethasone is a recommended treatment for infantile sight-threatening periocular haemangiomas.
  • The endocrine and weight effects of this therapy in infants are not well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate endocrine changes, specifically serum cortisol and ACTH levels.
  • To assess weight changes in infants treated with intralesional triamcinolone/betamethasone for periocular haemangiomas.

Main Methods:

  • 15 infants with periocular haemangiomas received intra/perilesional triamcinolone/betamethasone.
  • Serial measurements of weight, serum cortisol, and ACTH were taken before and after treatment.

Main Results:

  • Significant reductions in cortisol and ACTH levels were observed 4 weeks post-injection.
  • 13 out of 15 infants experienced prolonged adrenal suppression, with recovery taking a median of 19.5 weeks.
  • 14 infants showed faltering weight gain, which resolved with the re-establishment of normal adrenal function.

Conclusions:

  • Intralesional corticosteroid injections for periocular haemangiomas frequently lead to prolonged adrenal suppression.
  • This endocrine disruption is associated with impaired weight gain in infants.
Abstract

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