Treatment of Periocular Infantile Hemangiomas with Propranolol: Case Series of 18 Children

Ocular and orbital tumors in childhood

Pediatric tumors of the eye and orbit can be benign or malignant as well as congenital or acquired and are usually distinctively different than those seen in adults. Although most of these neoplasms are benign (eg, dermoid cyst, chalazion, molluscum), their location near and within a vital organ can result in serious dermatologic and ophthalmologic sequelae. Lesions discussed include vascular lesions, retinoblastomas (the most common primary pediatric intraocular malignancy), rhabdomyosarcoma (the most common primary pediatric orbital malignancy), Langerhans cell histiocytosis, and metastatic lesions to the orbit (neuroblastoma, Ewing sarcoma). Although cysts and ocular melanoma can occur within the pediatric population, these conditions are covered in other contributions in this issue of Clinics in Dermatology.

Advantages of Early Surgical Management of Periorbital Infantile Hemangiomas

Background: Early evaluation and treatment of periorbital infantile hemangiomas (POIH) were associated with lower rates of ophthalmological complications. Objective: To evaluate age and characteristics associated with improved anisometropic astigmatism (anisoastigmatism) and eye symmetry measured by diopters and a 5-point scale, respectively, in patients with POIH treated with surgical excision. Methods: A retrospective study was performed on patients with POIH. Patient characteristics and eye symmetry were analyzed between patients with resolved and unresolved anisoastigmatism after surgery. Statistical analyses included the Mann-Whitney U tests, chi-square tests, and linear regression models. Results: In total, 54 patients were included (male: 20, female: 34). Upper medial eyelid was the most commonly affected site (resolved: 45%, unresolved: 43%), followed by upper lateral and upper central. Fifty-six percent (31/55) had postoperative resolution of anisoastigmatism, whereas 44% (24/55) did not. Earlier surgical evaluation (median: 4.5 vs. 6.0 months, p = 0.047) and excision (median: 5.0 vs. 12.0 months, p = 0.005) were associated with reversible anisoastigmatism. Good and suboptimal eye symmetry were not associated with earlier surgical excision (median: 6 vs. 6.5 months, p = 0.87). Follow-up ranged from 1 month to 12 years. Conclusion: Earlier surgical excision was associated with reversing anisoastigmatism but was not significant for improving eye symmetry.

Long-Term Results of Oral Propranolol Treatment Protocol for Periocular Infantile Hemangioma: Should There Be Any Contraindication?

PURPOSE

The authors report long-term results of the oral propranolol treatment protocol for periocular infantile hemangioma regardless of conventional indications.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study (2008-2018) on children with propranolol treatment protocol for periocular infantile hemangioma and last follow-up (FU) of ≥4 months after treatment and age of >24 months. After systemic evaluation, it was started with 0.5 and increased by 0.5 every 3 days to reach 2 mg/kg/day. If there was no good response, it would be gradually increased up to 3 mg/kg/day. Tapering (0.5 mg/kg/day every 4 weeks) was started when patients were on treatment for ≥6 months and ≥12 months old and there was no change in the infantile hemangioma size for ≥3 months. Rebound growth was based on the parents' report and would be treated by increasing the dose to at least 2 mg/kg/day for 3 months. FU was either in-person or via social media. Change in periocular infantile hemangioma size on the photos was scored by 3 masked observers (visual analog scale) and presented as excellent (≥50% reduction), good (1%-49%), fair (no change), and failure (enlarged).

RESULTS

Forty-three patients were included. Orbital involvement was in 49%, ptosis in 58%, and risk of amblyopia in 63%. Mean treatment, tapering, and FU duration were 37, 13, and 74 months, respectively. Mean age at presentation, start of propranolol treatment protocol, tapering, stop, and last FU were 1.5, 5, 29, 42, and 78 months, respectively. Twenty-seven patients received 2, seven 2.5, and nine 3 mg/kg/day. Mean visual analog scale significantly increased from 43% (FU1) to 92% (last FU) when 97.6% of patients showed an excellent response. The remaining skin lesions were observed in 35%. No side effect was reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term results of the propranolol treatment protocol for periocular infantile hemangioma showed an excellent response in 97.6% of patients with no side effects. A residual skin lesion was observed in 1/3 of the patient.

ALTERNATIVE MANAGEMENT OF CIRCUMSCRIBED CHOROIDAL HEMANGIOMA USING INTRAVITREAL METOPROLOL

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

To describe a patient with visually symptomatic circumscribed choroidal hemangioma (CCH) treated successfully with intravitreal beta-blocker.

METHODS

This is an interventional single case report of a 63 year-old man with a juxtafoveal CCH and extensive subretinal fluid (SRF) unsuccessfully treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF. Off-label intravitreal use of metoprolol (50μg/0.05 ml) was then performed. Main outcome measures were resolution or decreased subretinal fluid on OCT, visual stability or improvement, lack of retinal/ocular toxicity.

RESULTS

Following 2 intravitreal injections of metoprolol (1 month apart), significant response was observed with decrease of SRF and visual improvement to 20/400 during a 9-week follow-up after the injections.

CONCLUSION

These preliminary findings suggest that intravitreal metoprolol can be a safe alternative treatment for patients with CCH. This off-label therapy could represent another option for patients with this condition.

Proanthocyanidins as a Potential Novel Way for the Treatment of Hemangioma

Hemangioma, the most common benign vascular tumor, not only affects the appearance and psychology but also has a life-threatening potential. It is considered that clonal vascular endothelial cell proliferation and excessive angiogenesis are responsible for hemangioma pathogenesis, in which abnormal cytokines/pathways are closely implicated, primarily including high expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as well as their downstream pathways, especially phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt). These further stimulate the migration and proliferation of vascular endothelial cells and promote the formation of new vessels, ultimately leading to the occurrence and development of hemangioma. Proanthocyanidins are naturally active substance from plants and fruits. They possess multiple functions like antiproliferation, antiangiogenesis, and antitumor. It has been demonstrated that proanthocyanidins effectively work in various diseases via inhibiting the expression of various factors, e.g., HIF-1α, VEGF, PI3K, and Akt. Considering the pathogenesis of hemangioma and the effect of proanthocyanidins, we hold a hypothesis that proanthocyanidins would be applied in hemangioma via downregulating cytokine/pathway expression, suppressing vascular cell proliferation and arrest abnormal angiogenesis. Taken together, proanthocyanidins may be a potential novel way for the treatment of hemangioma.

Surgical Intervention of Periocular Infantile Hemangiomas in the Era of β-Blockers

PURPOSE

To examine the role of adjuvant surgical resection of infantile hemangiomas after systemic β-blocker therapy.

METHODS

This is a multicentered retrospective study. Standard protocol for oral propranolol was employed by the referring physicians. Ocular indications for surgery included ptosis obstructing the visual axis, high degrees of astigmatism causing amblyopia, or disfigurement from residual tumor. Patients underwent complete excision or debulking.

RESULTS

Eleven girls and 4 boys were surgically treated with mean operative age of 34.4 months. Patients were followed for a mean of 19.6 months after surgery. Four patients required surgical treatment due to an inability to tolerate medical therapy secondary to drug-related side effects (including bradycardia). The other 11 patients proceeded to surgery due to residual eyelid and orbital lesions despite medical treatment. All 15 patients underwent orbitotomy for residual hemangioma excision. Four patients also underwent simultaneous levator advancement at the time of excision. In all cases, there was resolution of ptosis with clearing of the visual axis. No complications were incurred during the surgical treatment and there were no hemangioma recurrences.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to report surgical management of periocular infantile hemangiomas recalcitrant to standard therapy in the β-blocker era. In patients with infantile hemangioma who have failed medical therapy, adjuvant surgical treatment still plays an important role. For patients with persistent tumor causing ocular sequelae, surgical intervention aimed at soft tissue debulking and ptosis repair can be successful in achieving excellent functional and aesthetic outcomes with minimal side effects.For patients with periocular infantile hemangiomas with residual soft tissue deformity following propranolol therapy, surgical treatment plays an important role in improving functional and cosmetic outcomes with minimal side effects.

Lip Infantile Hemangiomas Involving the Vermillion Border Have Worse Outcomes and Prognosis to Oral Propranolol Than Lesions Confined to One Side of the Vermillion

PURPOSE

Oral propranolol has been widely used for problematic infantile hemangiomas (IHs). Lip IHs present a high risk of disfigurement and associated psychosocial dysfunction and require early treatment. Lips are compound parts that consist of the upper and lower lips and include the mucosal and cutaneous lips histologically. The present retrospective study aimed to determine the response and prognosis of different subtypes of lip IHs to the use of systemic propranolol.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The data from 81 patients with lip IHs treated with systemic propranolol (2 mg/kg/day) were reviewed. Localized and segmental lip IHs were evaluated separately. The outcomes and prognosis of localized hemangiomas were further evaluated stratified by different features: 1) upper and lower lip; and 2) crossing the vermilion border.

RESULTS

The lesions involving the upper lips and those involving the lower lips had the same outcomes and prognosis. Lesions involving the vermillion border required longer treatment and had poorer outcomes and prognosis compared with lesions confined to 1 side of the vermilion.

CONCLUSIONS

After oral propranolol treatment, IHs localized to upper lip had the same outcomes and prognosis as IHs localized to the lower lip. Lip IHs involving the vermillion border had worse outcomes and prognosis than lesions confined to 1 side of the vermillion.

Individualized dosing of oral propranolol for treatment of infantile hemangioma: a prospective study

Introduction

infantile hemangioma is the most common benign tumor in infancy. Currently, oral propranolol is the treatment of choice for infantile hemangioma, but there is no consensus when it comes to its recommended dosage for this condition. Hence this study was conducted to find out the appropriate dosage of oral propranolol for treatment of infantile hemangioma.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted on 25 patients with infantile hemangioma, who were treated with gradually increasing dose of propranolol starting from a lower dose of 1mg/kg/day.

Results

17/22(76%) patients showed regression of the tumor at the dose of 1- 1.5 mg/kg/d. 5/22(24%) patients were unresponsive to the treatment with the lower dose and they did not respond even with the gradually escalated dose of 3-4 mg/kg/day.

Conclusion

Propranolol in a lower dose of 1-1.5 mg/kg/day is safe and efficacious in the treatment of infantile hemangioma and the lesions which do not show initial response to the lower dose are unlikely to respond to the higher dose of 3-4 mg/kg/day.

Clinical and Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Infantile Periocular Hemangioma Treated With Oral Propranolol

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical and ultrasonographic response of periocular infantile capillary hemangioma during treatment with oral propranolol.

METHODS

Patients with infantile periocular hemangioma and visual or cosmetic concerns were enrolled in this prospective interventional case series. Propranolol was given at a dose of 2 mg/kg per day for at least 6 months. Evaluation of treatment response was performed at month 3 (time point 1) and month 6 (time point 2). Gray scale ultrasonography and color Doppler imaging were performed at baseline and month 3.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients with mean age of 4.1 ± 2.3 months were eligible for analysis. Complete or near complete clinical resolution was observed in 4 patients (12.9%) at time point 1 and 21 patients (67.7%) at time point 2. Longitudinal diameter, transverse diameter, thickness, arterial peak systolic velocity, and end diastolic velocity reduced significantly from baseline to 3-month follow up. Complete clinical response at time point 2 was significantly higher in patients with peak systolic velocity reduction >50% from baseline to month 3 than patients with peak systolic velocity reduction of 10% to 50% and <10%.

CONCLUSIONS

Propranolol is safe and effective for infantile periocular hemangioma. Ultrasonography and color Doppler imaging are useful modalities to monitor and predict the treatment response.

Current treatment and management of infantile hemangiomas

Infantile hemangiomas, otherwise known as infantile capillary hemangiomas, strawberry hemangiomas, or strawberry nevi, are nonmalignant vascular tumors that commonly affect children. The natural disease course typically involves growth for up to a year, followed by regression without treatment over a period of years with no cosmetic or functional sequelae. Less commonly, however, infantile hemangiomas can become a threat to vision or even life depending on location and size of the lesion. In addition, infantile hemangiomas, particularly those involving the face, may be disfiguring and result in lifelong sequelae. β-blockers have become a mainstay of therapy given their relatively low-risk profile and efficacy. Other treatment modalities previously described in the literature include corticosteroids (both intralesional and systemic), imiquimod, vincristine, bleomycin A5, and interferon α. More recently, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors such as captopril have been used. Laser therapy and, less commonly, surgical excision are also available treatment options. We review current recommended management and treatment of capillary hemangiomas and discuss the benefits and risks of all previously reported treatment modalities.

Vascular Anomalies of the Orbit--A Reappraisal

The recent International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) classification of vascular anomalies can be applied to orbital lesions, dividing them into vascular tumors and vascular malformations. Orbital cavernous hemangiomas are probably best considered cavernous venous malformations under this classification. Management of symptomatic lesions can be with surgical excision or stereotactic fractionated radiotherapy in selected cases. Beta-blockers including propranolol and topical timolol maleate represent first-line therapy for infantile hemangiomas, although surgery has a role in selected cases. Orbital venous-lymphatic malformations are problematic but with improved imaging, neuroradiological intervention, and a multidisciplinary approach to management, outcomes are improving.

Efficacy of Propranolol Between 6 and 12 Months of Age in High-Risk Infantile Hemangioma

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

There is no consensus on optimal treatment duration for propranolol in infantile hemangioma (IH). We evaluated the efficacy and safety of oral propranolol solution administered for a minimum of 6 months up to a maximum of 12 months of age in high-risk IH.

METHODS

This single-arm, open-label, phase 3 study was conducted in patients aged 35 to 150 days with high-risk IH in 10 hospitals between 2015 and 2017. The study comprised a 6-month initial treatment period (ITP) plus continuation up to 12 months of age if complete success was not achieved, a follow-up, and a retreatment period. Patients received oral propranolol twice daily (3 mg/kg per day). The primary end point was the success rate at the end of the ITP. Furthermore, the persistence of IH response and efficacy of retreatment was evaluated.

RESULTS

The success rate after 6 months of treatment was 47%, increasing to 76% at the end of the ITP. Of the patients who achieved success, 68% sustained success for 3 months without treatment, and 24% required retreatment. Of the 8 patients who were retreated, 7 achieved success. Adverse events, reported by 80% of patients, were mild, which were expected in this population or known propranolol side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral propranolol administered beyond 6 months and up to 12 months of age meaningfully increases the success rate in high-risk IH. Success was sustained in most patients up to 3 months after stopping treatment. Retreatment was efficacious, and the safety profile satisfactory.

The Use of β-Blockers for the Treatment of Periocular Hemangiomas in Infants: A Report by the American Academy of Ophthalmology

PURPOSE

To review the published literature assessing the efficacy of β-blockers for the treatment of periocular hemangioma in infants.

METHODS

Literature searches were conducted in May 2018 in PubMed with no date restrictions and limited to studies published in English and in the Cochrane Library database without any restrictions. The combined searches yielded 437 citations. Of these,16 articles were deemed appropriate for inclusion in this assessment and assigned a level of evidence rating by the panel methodologist.

RESULTS

None of the 16 studies included in this assessment were rated level I, 3 were rated level II, and 13 were rated level III. The most common treatment regimen was 2 mg/kg daily oral propranolol, but intralesional and topical β-blockers were also used. Treatment effect was most often measured in terms of reduction in the size of the lesions, which occurred in the majority of patients. β-Blockers were consistently shown to reduce astigmatism, but this reduction was shown to be statistically significant in only 2 series. The effect of β-blockers on amblyopia was not adequately documented. β-Blockers were generally well tolerated and had mild side effects (fatigue, gastrointestinal upset/diarrhea, restlessness/sleep disturbances, minor wheezing, and cold extremities). Complications severe enough to require cessation of treatment occurred in only 2 patients out of a total of 229 who received β-blockers.

CONCLUSIONS

There is limited evidence to support the safety and efficacy of both topical and systemic β-blockers to promote regression of periocular hemangiomas. Additional research may confirm the best dosage and route of administration to maximize efficacy in reducing induced astigmatism and amblyopia associated with periocular hemangiomas while minimizing side effects.

Risk factors for ocular complications in periocular infantile hemangiomas

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Infantile hemangiomas are the most common benign tumors of childhood. Although some children with periocular infantile hemangiomas do not require treatment, these lesions may result in amblyopia and visual impairment if not properly treated. We have attempted to characterize clinical features of periocular infantile hemangiomas that predict negative ocular outcomes and thus require prompt referral to an ophthalmologist and initiation of therapy.

METHODS

This study included children with periocular infantile hemangiomas consecutively seen at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago from January 1994 through December 2014. Only patients evaluated by both a dermatologist and an ophthalmologist were included. Medical records of patients who met inclusion criteria were reviewed. Ocular findings were reviewed for the presence of ptosis, refractive errors, strabismus, proptosis, and amblyopia.

RESULTS

Ninety-six patients (74% female, median age of onset 0.48 months) were included. Periocular infantile hemangiomas larger than 1 cm in diameter, with a deep component, and with involvement of the upper eyelid were significantly associated with astigmatism (P = .002, P = .02, and P = .003, respectively) and amblyopia (P = .002, P = .02, and P = .04, respectively). Using logistic regression, diameter greater than 1 cm (odds ratio = 14.13, P = .01) and amblyopia (odds ratio = 21.00, P = .04) were the strongest predictors of astigmatism. Lower lid and medial and lateral canthal involvement were not predictive of ocular complications.

CONCLUSION

Predictive factors for ocular complications in patients with periocular infantile hemangiomas are diameter greater than 1 cm, a deep component, and upper eyelid involvement, with size being the most consistent predictor. These patients should be promptly referred to an ophthalmologist, and treatment should be strongly considered.

Clinical and Radiological Evaluation of Periocular Infantile Hemangioma Treated With Oral Propranolol: A Case Series

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of propranolol (3 mg/kg/day) in the treatment of periocular infantile hemangioma (IH) based on clinical and radiological findings.

DESIGN

Prospective interventional case series.

METHODS

Study of previously untreated infants with IH conducted at the ophthalmology outpatient service of HC-FMUSP (Brazil). The patients were submitted to a complete ophthalmologic examination, gray-scale and Doppler ultrasonography, and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging. Lesion regression was evaluated clinically and radiologically during follow-up. The sample consisted of potentially amblyogenic and disfiguring lesions. The dose was increased at weekly intervals, from 0.5 mg to 3 mg/kg/day. The age at onset of treatment was 2-28 months. Follow-up lasted up to 48 months.

RESULTS

Nine infants with periocular IH were treated with propranolol (oral) for 2-12 months (mean: 7.1 months). Clinical regression (attenuation of color and reduction in size) was observed in 88% during the first days of treatment. Partial recurrence was observed during follow-up in a patient treated for 6 months. On Doppler ultrasonography, during the first 6 months of treatment lesion volume and vascular density decreased while the arterial resistivity index (RI) increased, followed by a decline.

CONCLUSION

Propranolol at 3 mg/kg/day was clinically and radiologically efficacious against deep IH in the proliferative stage, with no recurrence in patients treated for 12 months. RI might help determine when treatment can be safely interrupted.

Spectral Doppler ultrasound for predicting long-term response to topical timolol in children with infantile hemangioma

BACKGROUND

To assess the utility of color and spectral Doppler ultrasound at predicting infantile hemangioma (IH) response to timolol.

METHODS

Eighty-three children (0-6 months old) with IH were treated with topical 0.5% timolol maleate twice daily for 6 months. They underwent color and spectral Doppler sonographic examinations at the first visit and 1 month after beginning timolol. Hemangioma volume, arterial diameter (AD), venous diameter (VD), resistance index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), peak arterial systolic velocity (PASV), maximum venous velocity, and mean venous velocity were measured. Therapeutic outcome was assessed at 6 months.

RESULTS

The hemangiomas were classified as deep (55.4%), hybrid (28.9%), or superficial (15.7%) and were located in the head and neck (36.1%), limbs (21.7%), or torso (42.2%). Regression occurred in 53 patients (63.9%). Timolol was the most effective in patients aged 5-6 months, in superficial hemangiomas, and in hemangiomas located on the torso. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that changes in RI (sensitivity/specificity: 71.7%/96.7%), PI (sensitivity/specificity: 73.6%/86.7%), PASV (sensitivity/specificity: 81.1%/80.0%), change in arterial diameter (sensitivity/specificity: 58.5%/83.3%), and change in venous diameter (sensitivity/specificity: 62.3%/73.3%) at 1 month could predict response to timolol at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in AD, VD, RI, PI, and PASV at 1 month could be used to predict response to timolol at 6 months. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:480-487, 2017.

When to stop propranolol for infantile hemangioma

There is no definitive conclusion regarding the optimal timing for terminating propranolol treatment for infantile hemangioma (IH). A total of 149 patients who underwent detailed color Doppler ultrasound examination were included in this study. The characteristics and propranolol treatment of all patients were summarized and analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups according to the lesion regression rate. Among the 149 patients, 38 were assigned to the complete regression group, and 111 were assigned to the partial regression group. The age at which propranolol treatment started, duration of follow-up after treatment discontinuation and rate of adverse events were not significantly different between the two groups. The duration of oral propranolol treatment was shorter in the complete regression group. The age at which propranolol was terminated was younger in the complete regression group, and this group had a lower recurrence rate. Propranolol is safe and effective for the treatment of IHs that require intervention, but it should be stopped at an appropriate time, which is determined primarily by the lesion regression rate after propranolol treatment. Ultrasound is helpful in determining when to stop propranolol for IH.

Excellent response of infantile orbital hemangioma to propranolol

Infantile hemangiomas are the most common vascular neoplasm that present in infancy, with more than half affecting the head and neck region. Periocularly, hemangiomas may be complicated by visual loss through induction of strabismal, deprivational, or anisometropic astigmatism. We report a case of a 5-year-old girl who presented with orbital hemangioma with potential risk of visual loss who had excellent response to propranolol.

Safety of Oral Propranolol for the Treatment of Infantile Hemangioma: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Given the widespread use of propranolol in infantile hemangioma (IH) it was considered essential to perform a systematic review of its safety. The objectives of this review were to evaluate the safety profile of oral propranolol in the treatment of IH.

METHODS

We searched Embase and Medline databases (2007-July 2014) and unpublished data from the manufacturer of Hemangiol/Hemangeol (marketed pediatric formulation of oral propranolol; Pierre Fabre Dermatologie, Lavaur, France). Selected studies included ≥10 patients treated with oral propranolol for IH and that either reported ≥1 adverse event or effect (AE) or planned to capture AEs. Data capture was standardized and extracted study design, demographic characteristics, IH characteristics, intervention, and safety outcomes. AEs were assigned a system organ class and preferred term.

RESULTS

A total of 83 of 398 identified literature records met the inclusion criteria, covering 3766 propranolol-treated patients. The manufacturer's data for 3 pooled clinical trials (435 propranolol-treated patients) and 1 Compassionate Use Program (1661 patients) were included. AE data were reported for 1945 of 5862 propranolol-treated patients. The most frequently reported AEs included a range of sleep disturbances, peripheral coldness, and agitation. The most serious AEs (atrioventricular block, bradycardia, hypotension, bronchospasm/bronchial hyperreactivity, and hypoglycemia-related seizures) were managed by decreasing doses or temporary/permanent discontinuation of propranolol. Limitations included the variety of included study designs; monitoring, collection, and reporting of AE data; small sample sizes for some articles; and the wide scope of review.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral propranolol is well tolerated if appropriate pretreatment assessments and within-treatment monitoring are performed to exclude patients with contraindications and to minimize serious side effects during treatment.

Beta Blockers in the Treatment of Periocular Infantile Hemangiomas: A Review

Infantile hemangiomas (IH) are the most common benign tumor of infancy, and in the periocular region can be associated with permanent visual impairment from amblyopia. Previous treatment options included systemic and local corticosteroids, surgical excision, laser therapy, and in rare cases immunomodulatory therapy, many of which had variable outcomes with undesirable side effect profiles. Since their initial use for IH in 2008, beta blockers have become the mainstay of therapy for periocular IH due to their excellent clinical efficacy and tolerability. While the exact mechanism of action of beta blockers in IH has not been fully elucidated, both oral and topical therapy have demonstrated low rates of adverse events and improved outcomes in the management of periocular IH. This review summarizes the most recent studies on the clinical outcomes, management, and guidelines for the treatment of periocular IH with topical and oral beta blockers.

Adverse Events in Young and Preterm Infants Receiving Topical Timolol for Infantile Hemangioma

BACKGROUND

The success of oral propranolol for treatment of infantile hemangiomas (IHs) has led practitioners to use topical β-blockers. In preterm infants, clinicians frequently turn to topical timolol, with the presumption that topical application will result in less systemic absorption. We used Holter monitoring to assess for drug-induced bradycardia in high-risk infants.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 22 at-risk infants who received a Holter monitor to assess for association between timolol administration and development of significant bradycardia.

RESULTS

Four infants had episodic bradycardia detected by Holter monitoring. Two of these infants were full term; weighed more than 3,000 g; and had rare, brief, asymptomatic episodes unrelated to the timing of the timolol application. The other two infants had symptomatic bradycardia while on timolol and were the only two babies that weighed less than 2,500 g at initiation of therapy. Both were young (postmenstrual age [PMA] 34 and 37 wks) at initiation and had a timolol dose above the average exposure for the cohort.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort of at-risk infants, topical timolol appeared to provide safe treatment for IHs in full-term infants receiving a dose of less than 0.2 mg/kg/day, but infants with a PMA of less than 44 weeks and weight at treatment initiation of less than 2,500 g may be at risk of adverse events, including bradycardia, hypotension, apnea, and hypothermia. We recommend close monitoring of temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate in premature and low-birthweight infants with IHs at initiation of and during therapy with topical timolol.

Visual acuity and astigmatism in periocular infantile hemangiomas treated with oral beta-blocker versus intralesional corticosteroid injection

BACKGROUND

Periocular infantile hemangiomas (PIH) can induce anisometropic astigmatism, a risk factor for amblyopia. Oral beta-blocker therapy has largely supplanted systemic or intralesional corticosteroids. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect and time course of these treatment modalities on visual acuity and induced astigmatism.

METHODS

The medical records of patients with PIH treated with oral propanolol between November 2008 and July 2013 were retrospectively reviewed for data on visual acuity and astigmatism. Patients with incomplete pre- and post-treatment ophthalmic examinations were excluded. Results were compared to those of a similar cohort treated with intralesional corticosteroid injection.

RESULTS

Mean astigmatism in affected eyes was 1.90 D before propranolol and 1.00 D after; patients showed a monophasic reduction in astigmatism over 12 months. By comparison, patients treated with corticosteroid injection showed a biphasic response, with an immediate steep decrease followed by a slow monophasic decline, paralleling propranolol-treated patients. Oral propranolol treatment caused a 47% reduction in mean induced astigmatism, less than the 63% reduction reported for the cohort treated with corticosteroid. No patient had visual acuity in the affected eye more than 1 standard devation below the age-matched norm, and none experienced significant side effects when treated with oral propranolol.

CONCLUSIONS

In this patient cohort oral beta-blocker was well-tolerated. Treatment was therefore often initiated prior to the induction of significant astigmatism, with treatment effects comparable to steroid treatment. Visual outcomes were good. Early treatment may minimize the potential effect of astigmatism on postnatal visual development.

Update on the Use of Ultrasound in Vascular Anomalies

Advances in our understanding of the biology and therapy of vascular anomalies have made this condition a common reason for consulting a dermatologist. In addition, multidisciplinary units have been created to manage patients with complex vascular anomalies. Although most vascular anomalies are diagnosed based on clinical findings, a thorough evaluation often requires additional imaging tests to determine the nature, extension, and prognosis of these lesions. Because it is fast and noninvasive, ultrasound is usually the first imaging test ordered. In the present review, we provide a state-of-the-art synthesis of key concepts in the ultrasound examination of vascular anomalies so that they are more accessible to clinicians and medical imaging specialists involved in the management of these lesions.

Diagnosis and Management of Infantile Hemangioma

Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are the most common tumors of childhood. Unlike other tumors, they have the unique ability to involute after proliferation, often leading primary care providers to assume they will resolve without intervention or consequence. Unfortunately, a subset of IHs rapidly develop complications, resulting in pain, functional impairment, or permanent disfigurement. As a result, the primary clinician has the task of determining which lesions require early consultation with a specialist. Although several recent reviews have been published, this clinical report is the first based on input from individuals representing the many specialties involved in the treatment of IH. Its purpose is to update the pediatric community regarding recent discoveries in IH pathogenesis, treatment, and clinical associations and to provide a basis for clinical decision-making in the management of IH.

Safety and Efficacy of Propranolol in Comparison With Combination of Fentanyl and Ketamine as Premedication in Cataract Surgery Under the Topical Anesthesia

This study evaluated the safety and effects of propranolol as a premedication before cataract surgery and compared them with the usual combination doses of fentanyl and ketamine. Among all reffered patients to Feiz Hospital of Esfahan for cataract surgery, 122 patients between Mar to Sep 2010 were enrolled in this study and randomly allocated into one of the following equal groups: 40 mg propranolol, 2 hours before surgery and combination of 15 mg ketamine and 50 µg fentanyl l. 5 min before surgery. The ability to control of hemodynamic instabilities caused by stress and to gain patients satisfaction was compared between two groups. Also, the efficacy of each premedication to control of hemodynamic changes during surgery were evaluated and compared. No significant differences were seen in the patients satisfaction and controlling of stress induced hemodynamic changes between two groups (P>0.05). However, patients in ketamine + fentanyl group showed more nausea and less pain during and after surgery. Moreover, no significant adverse effects were reported during and after the surgery. Our results demonstrated that propranolol can be used safely as a premedication in cataract surgery in the comparable efficacy to ketamine plus fentanyl premedication.

Large orbital hemangioma: managed with systemic propranolol

Most infantile hemangiomas resolve spontaneously without any need for therapy. However some hemangiomas require treatment to preserve function (vision, feeding and breathing) or to treat complications like ulceration, bleeding and scarring. The authors present a 5-mo-old infant with large orbital hemangioma on left side completely obscuring palpebral fissure, successfully managed with oral propranolol.

Propranolol as first-line treatment in orbital infantile haemangiomas: a case series

PURPOSE

To highlight the importance of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and the use of propranolol as both a final diagnostic tool and adequate treatment for orbital Infantile Haemangiomas (IHs).

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted using a case series of 5 infants diagnosed with orbital IH. All patients presented with progressive unilateral proptosis and were at high risk of developing amblyopia, some had combined swelling of the eyelid, impaired eye movements or exposure keratopathy. Propranolol was administered in an initial dose of 0.6 mg/kg/day orally divided in three daily doses and increased in 4 days to 2.7 mg/kg/day. MRI was performed in all children.

RESULTS

Striking MR characteristics of an IH lesion were seen in each of our 5 cases, including the presence of flow voids, high contrast enhancement, hypo-intense T1W signal, iso- to hyper intense T2W signal, and lobulated appearance. All patients showed a quick clinical response to treatment, resulting in significant reduction in tumour size within a range of 1-3 weeks and almost complete regression of the lesion at the end of the treatment schedule.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study adds another 5 cases to the growing body of reports confirming the efficacy and safety - under controlled circumstances - of propranolol therapy in orbital IH management, in which we highlight the use of propranolol as both a final diagnostic tool and as an adequate treatment.

Propranolol and periocular capillary hemangiomas: assessment of refractive effect

PURPOSE

To assess the effects of systemic propranolol on refractive error in infants with periocular capillary hemangiomas.

METHODS

A single-center study of consecutive patients with capillary hemangiomas treated with systemic propranolol. Refractive data were analyzed using Long's matrix formalism and the methods of Harris and Kaye.

RESULTS

Seventeen patients were included. At 6 months postoperatively, hemangioma size reduced from 3,214 to 1,806 mm(3) (standard deviation: 4,122 to 2,441). Mean refractive error in the affected eye significantly reduced: -1.25/0.38 × 36 (95% confidence intervals: -5.08/1.20 × 90 to 1.64/1.43 × 180, P = .048) with a smaller change (P = .06) in the unaffected eye of -1.01/+0.31 × 3.16 (95% confidence intervals: -4.02/+1.12 × 180 to +1.49/+0.51 × 90).

CONCLUSIONS

Propranolol produced a clinically significant reduction in the infants' refractive error and anisometropia. The reduction in the total refractive error and anisometropia has not been evident in previous analyses, which have concentrated on the change in the "cylinder" as the principal outcome measure.

Treatment of periorbital infantile haemangiomas: a systematic literature review on propranolol or steroids

AIM

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of propranolol versus corticosteroids for the treatment of periorbital infantile haemangiomas (IHs).

METHODS

A literature review using PubMed, Ovid Medline, EBSCO, Springer, Web of Knowledge, Cochrane Library, CNKI and associated references before 2 March 2013 was conducted. The main outcomes were distribution of locations, response rate, rebound growth rate, spherical and cylinder power before and after treatment, amblyopia rate and adverse events.

RESULTS

Thirty-one studies including 425 patients met the inclusion criteria. A total of 70.6% of patients were female, 89.6% of the periorbital IHs were located in the upper or lower eyelid area. The most common administration routes involved oral propranolol and intralesional injection of corticosteroids. The mean response rate was 94.0% for propranolol and 82.3% for corticosteroid (P = 0.001). The rebound growth rate was 13.9% for propranolol and 12.0% for steroids (P = 0.71). Astigmatism was reduced in both propranolol and steroid studies (P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001), but a significant reduction in spherical power was only demonstrated in propranolol studies (P = 0.005). A total of 31.1% of patients treated with corticosteroids developed post-operative amblyopia compared with 16.7% of patients treated with propranolol (P = 0.04). Oral propranolol seemed to induce more temporary adverse events than intralesional corticosteroids administration (24.0% vs. 9.6%, P = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Propranolol may represent an effective therapy for periorbital IHs compared with the use of corticosteroids; however, further randomised control studies are needed to compare adverse events.

Beta-blockers for the treatment of problematic hemangiomas

OBJECTIVE

To examine treatment indications, efficacy and side effects of oral beta-blockers for the treatment of problematic hemangiomas.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients with hemangiomas presenting to the Alberta Children's Hospital Vascular Birthmark Clinic (Calgary, Alberta) between 2009 and 2011 was conducted. The subset of patients treated with oral beta-blockers was further characterized, investigating indication for treatment, response to treatment, time to resolution of indication, duration of treatment, occurrence of rebound growth and side effects of therapy.

RESULTS

Between 2009 and 2011, 311 new patients with hemangiomas were seen, of whom 105 were treated with oral beta-blockers. Forty-five patients completed beta-blocker treatment while the remainder continue to receive therapy. Indications for treatment were either functional concerns (68.6%) or disfigurement (31.4%). Functional concerns included ulceration (29.5%), periocular location with potential for visual interference (28.6%), airway interference (4.8%), PHACES syndrome (3.8%), auditory interference (0.95%) and visceral location with congestive heart failure (0.95%). The median age at beta-blocker initiation was 3.3 months; median duration of therapy was 10.6 months; and median maximal treatment dose was 1.5 mg/kg/day for propranolol and 1.6 mg/kg/day for atenolol. Ninety-nine patients (94.3%) responded to therapy with size reduction, colour changes, softened texture and/or healing of ulceration. Rebound growth requiring an additional course of therapy was observed in 23 patients. Side effects from beta-blockers included cool extremities (26.7%), irritability (17.1%), lower gastrointestinal upset (14.3%), emesis (11.4%), hypotension (10.5%), poor feeding (7.6%), lethargy (4.8%), bronchospasm (0.95%) and rash (0.95%). Side effects did not result in complete discontinuation of beta-blocker treatment in any case; however, they prompted a switch to a different beta-blocker preparation in some cases. Resolution of the primary indication, requiring a median time of three months, occurred in 87 individuals (82.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of infantile hemangiomas with oral beta-blocker therapy is highly effective and well tolerated, with more than 94% of patients demonstrating a response to treatment and 90% showing resolution of the primary functional indication for treatment.

Approach to the patient with an infantile hemangioma

Infantile hemangioma is the most common soft tissue tumor of childhood. Despite its frequency, it has only been in the last decade that these lesions have been better characterized and become the subject of significant clinical and translational research. Although most infantile hemangiomas are uncomplicated and do not require intervention, they can be a significant source of parental distress, cosmetic disfigurement, and morbidity. The wide spectrum of disease in the morphology of these lesions and in their behavior has made it difficult to predict the need for treatment and has made it challenging to establish a standardized approach to management.

Capillary haemangioma successfully treated with oral beta-blocker in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: a case report

Capillary haemangiomas are the most common orbital and periocular tumors in children, typically presenting in infancy. Propranolol has recently been introduced as a novel pharmacologic treatment for infantile haemangiomas, after Leaute-Labreze and colleagues observed that two patients being treated for cardiac indications had rapid regression of their haemangiomas. We report a case of haemangioma, successfully treated with oral beta-blocker, in the context of a public eye clinic in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first recorded instance of a capillary haemangioma being successfully treated with a systemic beta-blocker in Tanzania.

Propranolol versus corticosteroids in the treatment of infantile hemangioma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Infantile hemangiomas are benign vascular neoplasms that can cause numerous functional or cosmetic problems. The authors reviewed the pathogenesis of hemangioma and compared the efficacy and complications related to therapy with propranolol versus corticosteroids.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted from 1965 to March of 2012 using MEDLINE, PubMed, Ovid, Cochrane Review database, and Google Scholar. All articles were reviewed for reports of clinical cases, reported side effects, doses, duration of treatment, number of patients, and response rate to treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 1162 studies were identified. Of those, only 56 articles met inclusion criteria after review by two independent reviewers (A.I. and J.K.). For the meta-analysis, 16 studies comprising 2629 patients and 25 studies comprising 795 patients were included. Less than 90 percent of patients treated with corticosteroids responded to therapy, compared with 99 percent of patients treated with propranolol after 12 months of follow-up. Meta-analysis demonstrated the corticosteroid studies to have a pooled response rate of 69 percent versus the propranolol response rate of 97 percent (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Propranolol is a relatively recent therapy of hemangiomas with fewer side effects, a different mechanism of action, and greater efficacy than current first-line corticosteroid therapy. Many of these studies do not have the same patient population or duration/regimen of treatment for hemangiomas; however, based on available data in the literature, it appears that propranolol could be an emerging and effective treatment for infantile hemangiomas. Further randomized controlled trials are recommended.

Propranolol and infantile hemangiomas four years later: a systematic review

To systematically review the literature evaluating efficacy and adverse events of propranolol treatment for infantile hemangiomas, we searched the MEDLINE and Cochrane databases for all studies examining the response of infantile hemangiomas (IHs) to propranolol published between June 12, 2008, and June 15, 2012. Forty-one studies with 1,264 patients were included; 74% of patients were female and approximately 30% had received other treatments before propranolol. Propranolol was initiated at a mean age of 6.6 months at a mean dose of 2.1 mg/kg/day and for a mean treatment duration of 6.4 months. The response rate for patients with IHs treated with propranolol was 98% (range 82%-100%), with response rate defined as any improvement with propranolol. Treatment response rates were comparable for studies evaluating IHs at specific sites, such as periorbital IHs. Studies that followed patients after treatment completion reported IH rebound growth in 17% of patients. There were 371 adverse events reported in 1,189 patients. The most common adverse events were changes in sleep (n = 136) and acrocyanosis (n = 61). Serious adverse events were rare, with reports of symptomatic hypotension in five patients, hypoglycemia in four, and symptomatic bradycardia in one. This systematic review of 1,264 patients treated with propranolol for IHs showed a high rate of efficacy and a low rate of serious adverse events.

Initiation and use of propranolol for infantile hemangioma: report of a consensus conference

Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are common neoplasms composed of proliferating endothelial-like cells. Despite the relative frequency of IH and the potential severity of complications, there are currently no uniform guidelines for treatment. Although propranolol has rapidly been adopted, there is significant uncertainty and divergence of opinion regarding safety monitoring, dose escalation, and its use in PHACE syndrome (PHACE = posterior fossa, hemangioma, arterial lesions, cardiac abnormalities, eye abnormalities; a cutaneous neurovascular syndrome characterized by large, segmental hemangiomas of the head and neck along with congenital anomalies of the brain, heart, eyes and/or chest wall). A consensus conference was held on December 9, 2011. The multidisciplinary team reviewed existing data on the pharmacologic properties of propranolol and all published reports pertaining to the use of propranolol in pediatric patients. Workgroups were assigned specific topics to propose protocols on the following subjects: contraindications, special populations, pretreatment evaluation, dose escalation, and monitoring. Consensus protocols were recorded during the meeting and refined after the meeting. When appropriate, protocol clarifications and revision were made and agreed upon by the group via teleconference. Because of the absence of high-quality clinical research data, evidence-based recommendations are not possible at present. However, the team agreed on a number of recommendations that arose from a review of existing evidence, including when to treat complicated IH; contraindications and pretreatment evaluation protocols; propranolol use in PHACE syndrome; formulation, target dose, and frequency of propranolol; initiation of propranolol in infants; cardiovascular monitoring; ongoing monitoring; and prevention of hypoglycemia. Where there was considerable controversy, the more conservative approach was selected. We acknowledge that the recommendations are conservative in nature and anticipate that they will be revised as more data are made available.

Treatment of infantile capillary hemangioma of the eyelid with systemic propranolol

PURPOSE

To assess the efficacy and safety of systemic propranolol for infantile capillary hemangiomas of the eyelid.

DESIGN

Prospective, interventional cases series.

METHODS

All patients with eyelid infantile capillary hemangiomas at risk of developing amblyopia seen between January 2009 and January 2012 at the University Federico II, Naples, Italy, were treated with systemic propranolol (2 mg/kg body weight per day). Maximum length of treatment was 4 months, and propranolol was suspended when complete regression of lesions was obtained or in case of collateral effects. Minimum follow-up was 6 months.

RESULTS

Of 17 patients with eyelid infantile capillary hemangiomas, 3 were excluded for asthma and 14 (7 males, 7 females; mean age, 20.85 ± 29.7 months; range, 1 to 72 months) underwent treatment with systemic propranolol. Capillary hemangiomas involved the upper eyelid in 10 cases and the lower eyelid in 4 cases. Propranolol was stopped in 1 case for hypotension and in 1 case for allergy. Treatment was administered over a mean of 2.5 ± 1.3 months (range, 1 to 4 months); the mean follow-up was 10.64 ± 8.7 months (range, 6 to 39 months). Ten patients were younger than 1 year and demonstrated complete regression. Two patients older than 5 years also benefited from treatment. In 4 cases, amblyogenic astigmatism was present and decreased from 1.25 ± 0.5 diopters before treatment to 0.25 ± 0.2 diopters after treatment. No regrowth was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Four months of treatment with oral propranolol for eyelid infantile capillary hemangiomas led to complete regression of the lesion in patients younger than 1 year. No major collateral effects were observed. Treatment also may be considered in patients older than 5 years to reduce astigmatism and for aesthetic purposes.

Infantile hemangiomas: A review

Infantile hemangiomas (IH) are the most common eyelid and orbital tumors of childhood. Although they are considered benign lesions that have a generally self-limited course, in the periocular region, they have the potential to cause amblyopia, strabismus, and severe disfigurement. The decision for treatment can be a source of anxiety for patients, parents, and physicians alike. There are numerous treatment modalities, including emerging therapies that may make treatment safer and more effective than ever before. This review discusses our current understanding of this disease, its management, and future therapies.

Current concepts in the management of periocular infantile (capillary) hemangioma

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review and evaluate the medical literature on new treatments for periocular infantile (capillary) hemangioma. Recent studies have shown a promising new therapy for infantile hemangioma using nonselective β-blockers, including oral propranolol and topical timolol.

RECENT FINDINGS

Conventional treatments for infantile hemangioma include the use of corticosteroids, laser, surgery, and immunomodulator therapy. Recently, systemic and topical β-blockers have been used to successfully treat infantile hemangioma. The drugs' mechanism of action remains uncertain, but plausible theories include vasoconstriction, modulation of pro-survival signal transduction pathways, and endothelial cell apoptosis. Whereas no life-threatening adverse events from β-blocker treatment have been described, there have been reports of bradycardia, hypotension, bronchospasm, hypoglycemia, and electrolyte disturbances resulting from systemic use of propranolol to treat infantile hemangioma. Sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances have also been frequently reported. Topical timolol application for localized, superficial tumors may confer similar efficacy as oral propranolol while reducing systemic effects.

SUMMARY

Despite the recent explosion of interest surrounding this novel treatment, current treatment and protocol-monitoring recommendations are based largely on the experience of individual centers. Several randomized controlled studies are currently underway, the results of which will guide future standard-of-care treatment for infantile hemangioma.