Related Experiment Videos
Propranolol in the management of infantile hemangiomas: clinical response and predictors
Alexandra Balma-Mena1, Ajith Chakkittakandiyil, Miriam Weinstein
1Pediatric Dermatology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON.
Background:
Recent data suggest that propranolol is an effective treatment for infantile hemangiomas (IHs). Data on the optimal dose, duration of therapy, and predictors of response are currently lacking.
Objective:
To assess the clinical response to and predictors of propranolol use in the treatment of IH.
Methods:
Retrospective cohort study of 44 patients. Two independent assessors evaluated improvement by comparing serial digital photographs using a 100 mm visual analogue scale (VAS), where 5 mm change represented 10% change in the size or appearance of the IH.
Results:
Propranolol was started at a mean age of 7.8 (SD 8.21) months and was used for 7.3 (SD 4.8) months before weaning. The mean percent improvement compared to baseline (as measured by the VAS) was 78% (SD 23%). Minor adverse events were noted in 32% of patients. The most significant predictor of regrowth after weaning was a IH > 5 cm in size (p = .017).
Conclusions:
Propranolol is effective in IH, but the side effects and the possibility of regrowth should be considered.
Related Concept Videos
Adrenergic Antagonists: Pharmacological Actions of β-Receptor Blockers
Adrenergic Antagonists: ɑ and β-Receptor Blockers
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Prostacyclin Receptor Agonists
These agonists bind to the IPR receptor situated on the plasma membrane of the pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells. This binding triggers a cascade of reactions known as the GS-AC-cAMP-PKA pathway. This pathway results in the relaxation of smooth muscle...
Antihypertensive Drugs: Types of β-Blockers
Factors Affecting Drug Response: Overview
Adrenergic Antagonists: Chemistry and Classification of β-Receptor Blockers