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The use of propranolol for complicated infantile hemangiomas

Nadia Vercellino1, Maria Victoria Romanini, Monica Pelegrini

  • 1Department of Cardiovascular, IRCCS Giannina Gaslini Children's Hospital, Genoa, Italy.

International Journal of Dermatology
|July 9, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Propranolol effectively treats complicated infantile hemangiomas in infants, showing high success rates with no observed adverse events. This medication is recommended as a first-line treatment for these vascular anomalies.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Dermatology
  • Vascular Anomalies
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Infantile hemangiomas are common benign vascular tumors in infants.
  • Complicated infantile hemangiomas require prompt and effective treatment.
  • Early intervention is crucial for optimal outcomes and to prevent disfigurement.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of propranolol in treating complicated infantile hemangiomas.
  • To compare outcomes in different infant age groups receiving propranolol therapy.

Main Methods:

  • A study involving 68 infants with various complicated infantile hemangiomas.
  • Oral propranolol administered at the lowest effective dose for six months.
  • Assessment of hemangioma evolution using clinical features (color, softening, size, volume).

Main Results:

  • Propranolol demonstrated high efficacy (92.6%) in arresting proliferation and promoting involution.
  • Effective even when initiated after 12 months of age at a low dose.
  • Regrowth occurred in 9.3% (moderate-to-severe) and 22.5% (mild) after discontinuation; no adverse events were reported.

Conclusions:

  • Propranolol is a safe and effective first-line treatment for complicated infantile hemangiomas.
  • Early and consistent use of propranolol leads to significant positive outcomes.
  • Consideration of propranolol is warranted for all infants with complicated hemangiomas.
Abstract

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