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Beta-blockers for childhood vascular tumors

Cheryl B Bayart1, Heather A Brandling-Bennett

  • 1aDepartment of Dermatology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio bDivision of Dermatology, Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.

Current Opinion in Pediatrics
|June 19, 2015
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Beta-blockers, particularly propranolol, are revolutionizing infantile hemangioma treatment. Research shows they are effective and safe, especially when started early, with other beta-blockers offering promising alternatives for these common childhood vascular tumors.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Dermatology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Infantile hemangiomas are the most common tumors in infancy.
  • Beta-blockers have been first-line treatment for infantile hemangiomas since 2008.
  • The therapeutic potential of beta-blockers is being investigated for other childhood vascular tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current role of beta-blockers in treating infantile hemangiomas.
  • To explore the use of beta-blockers in other pediatric vascular tumors.
  • To summarize recent findings on beta-blocker efficacy and safety.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent research on beta-blocker therapy for infantile hemangiomas and other vascular tumors.
  • Analysis of treatment outcomes and safety profiles of various beta-blockers.
  • Synthesis of current evidence regarding optimal treatment strategies.

Main Results:

  • Propranolol is a highly effective and safe treatment for infantile hemangiomas, most successful during the proliferative phase.
  • Topical timolol shows efficacy for small, superficial infantile hemangiomas.
  • Other oral beta-blockers (atenolol, nadolol) are less studied but may be effective.
  • Beta-blockers demonstrate variable results for pyogenic granulomas, kaposiform hemangioendotheliomas, and tufted angiomas.

Conclusions:

  • Propranolol has transformed infantile hemangioma management.
  • Further research is needed to determine optimal beta-blocker choice, dosage, and duration.
  • The utility of beta-blockers for other pediatric vascular tumors requires additional investigation.

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