Surgery is the only therapeutic option for cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) and is proposed, whenever possible, after haemorrhagic events, neurological symptoms, or epilepsy, radiosurgery being a controversial alternative in some cases. However, there is no treatment for non-accessible lesions, such as brainstem CCM, multiple CCM, or those located in functional areas. Propranolol, a non-selective beta-blocker used as first-line treatment for infantile haemangiomas, has proved spectacularly effective in a few cases of adult patients with CCM. We herein review the histological, in vitro data and clinical findings that support the idea of propranolol as a potential treatment for CCM. Since one retrospective study has not been conclusive, we support the idea that prospective trials are necessary.
Keywords: Beta-blocker; Cavernomas; Cavernous angiomas; Cavernous haemangiomas; Cavernous malformations.