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Linear subcutaneous fat atrophy after corticosteroid injection of periocular hemangiomas

P J Droste1, F D Ellis, N Sondhi

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis.

Insights

Corticosteroid injections for periocular hemangiomas in children can cause localized subcutaneous fat atrophy. This adverse effect appears at the injection site and may spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Pediatrics
  • Ophthalmology

Background:

  • Periocular hemangiomas are common vascular tumors in infants.
  • Corticosteroid injections are a recognized treatment for problematic hemangiomas.
  • Assessing treatment-related adverse effects is crucial for pediatric patient care.

Observation:

  • Two pediatric patients received corticosteroid injections for periocular hemangiomas.
  • Subcutaneous fat atrophy was observed in both children.
  • The atrophy was localized to the injection site.

Findings:

  • The observed fat atrophy followed the lymphatic drainage pathways.
  • Atrophy extended towards the regional lymph nodes.
  • This suggests a potential mechanism for corticosteroid-induced lipoatrophy.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should be aware of the risk of localized lipoatrophy following corticosteroid injections for periocular hemangiomas.
  • Monitoring for and managing this adverse effect is important in pediatric patients.
  • Further research may elucidate the precise mechanisms and long-term consequences of this phenomenon.

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