Subglottic hemangiomas in infants: treatment with intralesional corticosteroid injection and intubation

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Subglottic hemangioma is a rare, benign vascular tumor that can cause airway obstruction in infants and children.
• Traditional treatments for subglottic hemangioma have varied, with some carrying significant risks or limited efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intralesional corticosteroid injections followed by intubation for treating subglottic hemangioma in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of six children treated between 1982 and 1987 at Sophia Children's Hospital.
• Treatment involved intralesional corticosteroid injections, with subsequent intubation.
• Dosage and number of injections varied based on patient response.

Main Results:

• All six children achieved symptom resolution following treatment.
• Three patients required one injection, two needed three, and one required five injections.
• The average intubation duration was 19 days.
• No serious complications or need for tracheotomy were reported.
• Symptom-free status was maintained at an average follow-up of 3.3 years.

Conclusions:

• Intralesional corticosteroid injections combined with intubation represent a safe and effective treatment for subglottic hemangioma in children.
• The therapeutic effect may be enhanced by the gentle pressure exerted by the endotracheal tube.
• This treatment modality is now the standard of care for subglottic hemangioma at our institution.