Topical Timolol: A Novel Approach in Infantile Hemangioma

Infantile hemangioma is the most common benign vascular tumor of childhood that has a tendency for spontaneous involution. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of topical timolol maleate in the treatment of superficial infantile hemangioma and associated side effects during the course of treatment. Four boys and five girls with a median age of 5 months were reviewed at 2-week intervals for a period of 16 weeks. A decrease in size, color, and consistency were noted. Adverse effects caused by timolol maleate were noted and managed. Of nine cases, two patients showed excellent response, five showed good response, one showed partial response, and one had poor response. Topical timolol maleate is safe and effective in the treatment of infantile hemangioma.