Morphological, genetic and clinical correlations in infantile hemangiomas and their mimics

Rom J Morphol Embryol. 2020 Jul-Sep;61(3):687-695. doi: 10.47162/RJME.61.3.07.

Abstract

Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are the most frequent pediatric benign vascular tumors, with a reported incidence of 5% to 10%. They have self-limiting evolution pattern divided into a growth phase in the first 12 months and a regression one, that may take up to 10 years. Occasionally, hemangiomas might lead to local or systemic complications, depending on their morphological characteristics. The first line of treatment is β-blockers, such as Propranolol, Timolol, Nadolol, administered either locally or systemically. Newer therapeutic strategies involving laser therapy and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors are being studied, while older treatment modalities like corticosteroids, Imiquimod, Vincristine, Bleomycin and Interferon-α have become second line therapy options. Before establishing the appropriate treatment, clinical, histological, and imaging investigations are required.

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Hemangioma* / drug therapy
  • Hemangioma* / genetics
  • Hemangioma, Capillary*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Laser Therapy*
  • Propranolol
  • Skin Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Adrenergic beta-Antagonists
  • Propranolol