Abstract

Propranolol was first used in 2008 to treat hemangioma; its efficacy and safety have since changed the classical treatment indications. Infantile hepatic hemangioma presents as a spectrum of clinical conditions varying from simple asymptomatic lesions to lethal complications. Tufted hemangioma and Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma are congenital vascular tumors that lead to Kasabach-Merritt syndrome. Hemangiomas, like pure arteriovenous malformations, can cause hyperdynamic heart failure, and diffuse nodular-type hemangiomas can present with hypothyroidism. Respiratory problems and hepatic failure can be associated with diffuse nodular-type liver hemangiomas. There is a spectrum of approaches to management, varying from "watchful waiting" to liver transplant. In the age of propranolol, there has been a prominent change in the infantile hepatic hemangioma treatment algorithm. Our suggestion is early treatment with 3 mg/kg/day propranolol plus 1.0 to1.5 mg/kg/day prednisolone in all patients. This protocol is the most effective strategy for type 3 infantile hepatic hemangioma. Approximately one-third of patients with abdominal compartment syndrome in the era before propranolol treatment required liver transplant; this new treatment obviates transplant for many of these patients.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.