Occlusion amblyopia secondary to a mixed capillary-cavernous hemangioma

We report a case of amblyopia that developed in an infant and was secondary to occlusion of the visual axis by a capillary-cavernous hemangioma. In addition to occlusion amblyopia, hemangiomas can cause astigmatic and myopic refractive errors, which usually persist throughout life. Indications for treatment and therapeutic modalities are discussed. Patients with cavernous and/or capillary hemangiomas of the periorbital region need ophthalmologic consultation and close follow-up during the first year of life. Therapy should be started promptly if growth of the hemangioma threatens to occlude vision or induce refractive error.