Topical Timolol Maleate for Superficial Infantile Hemangiomas: An Observational Study

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the clinical effects and safety of topical timolol maleate for the management of superficial infantile hemangiomas (IHs). From October 2012 to March 2014, 35 infants (24 girls and 11 boys; 2 to 10months old; median age, 4.7months) with superficial hemangiomas were treated with the local application of timolol maleate in the authors' department. Thirty-five lesions were treated using topically administrated timolol maleate every 12hours for a mean duration of 22weeks (range, 6 to 45weeks). Follow-up visits were scheduled monthly and changes in tumor size, texture, and color were recorded. Treatment response was scored according to a 3-point scale system as good, partial, or no response. Adverse effects after medication were evaluated and managed accordingly. All patients completed treatment. Of the 35 hemangiomas, 18 (51.4%) showed a good response, 10 (31.4%) showed a partial response, and 6 (17.2%) had no response. The total response rate was 82.8% (29 of 35). Clinically, no systemic or local side effects caused by timolol maleate were observed in the patients. Topical timolol maleate could provide an effective and safe alternative to the systemic use of propranolol for the treatment of superficial IHs. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of topical timolol maleate for the treatment of IHs.