Management of Refractory Pediatric Kaposiform Hemangioendothelioma With Sirolimus and Aspirin

J Pediatr Hematol Oncol. 2018 May;40(4):e239-e242. doi: 10.1097/MPH.0000000000001046.

Abstract

Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE) is a rare vascular tumor characterized by aggressive local invasion and a syndrome of platelet trapping known as Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon that, through deposition of platelet derived growth factors, may perpetuate the growth of the tumor. Although many cases of KHE are successfully treated with local control or low-intensity chemotherapy, some cases are often refractory even to aggressive treatment. Herein, we describe a patient with a refractory, recurrent KHE despite multiple attempts at local control and intensive chemotherapy, that ultimately was successfully treated with rationally designed and low-intensity combination therapy of sirolimus and aspirin.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Aspirin / administration & dosage*
  • Child
  • Hemangioendothelioma* / drug therapy
  • Hemangioendothelioma* / pathology
  • Humans
  • Kasabach-Merritt Syndrome* / drug therapy
  • Kasabach-Merritt Syndrome* / pathology
  • Male
  • Sarcoma, Kaposi* / drug therapy
  • Sarcoma, Kaposi* / pathology
  • Sirolimus / administration & dosage*

Substances

  • Aspirin
  • Sirolimus

Supplementary concepts

  • Kaposiform Hemangioendothelioma