The treatment of subglottic hemangiomas of infants with prednisone

Because of their spontaneous regression, capillary and cavernous hemangiomas of infants usually do not require treatment. However, when they interfere because of their location with important functions of the body or even threaten life, treatment becomes mandatory. This is the case in most patients with congenital subglottic hemangiomas. In the past various methods of treatment have been used. All of them have disadvantages, and some are hazardous. Most cases (74.2%) required protracted tracheostomy. Mortality rate is still high (23.8%). We report herewith 5 infants with subglottic hemangiomas successfully treated with prednisone. No remarkable side-effects were observed, besides transient moonfacing. Similar good results were previously reported in 9 cases by several authors. Prednisone therapy if instituted early may reduce the need of tracheostomy and bring about complete recovery in this sometimes severe condition. Proper dosage and sufficient length of treatment are absolutely essential for such successful outcome.