Recurrent parotid cavernous haemangioma in an adolescent, successfully treated with Propranolol

Parotid haemangiomas account for the majority of salivary gland tumours in children. This articles highlights the use of medical treatment for the treatment of parotid haemangioma.

A 4 year old male underwent a superficial parotidectomy for a parotid mass that was found to be a a parotid haemangioma on histology. At the age of 14 years he presented again with a parotid mass. He had imaging which aided the diagnosis of a parotid haemangioma being made. He was treated with successfully propranolol over a period of 6 months.

There are no clear guidelines for treatment of parotid haemangiomas. These lesions can represent a clinical challenge and optimal management is controversial. It was proposed that propranolol be used for treatment in this particular case. This is a non-invasive form of treatment with minimal side effects.