Paradigm shift in the management of infantile hemangiomas in the beta-blocker era: A retrospective cohort study

Abstract

Background: Observation had been widely recommended for most patients with infantile hemangiomas (IHs), although this approach predates the emergence of beta-blockers for IH.

Objective: To characterize the management practices for patients with IH in the beta-blocker era.

Methods: Retrospective study at tertiary referral centers. Management decisions were analyzed based on the hemangioma severity scale (HSS) and risk stratification recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics Clinical Practice Guidelines.

Results: A total of 1701 patients met the criteria for inclusion. Active intervention was initiated in 68% of patients, representing a significant change compared to a similar sized cohort from 2002-2003 where some form of treatment was given in 38% (P < .01). Patients who received treatment had a median HSS of 9 (interquartile range 6.11). An American Academy of Pediatrics Clinical Practice Guidelines risk category of intermediate or higher was strongly associated with the decision to actively treat.

Limitations: The study was limited by its retrospective design and the setting in tertiary referral centers.

Conclusions: At tertiary centers, treatment was initiated in a majority of patients. This represents an important shift in the management practices of IH, moving away from the traditional hands-off approach prior to the emergence of beta-blockers for IH.

Keywords: atenolol; beta-blocker; infantile hemangiomas; management; nadolol; propranolol; timolol; vascular anomalies; vascular tumors.