Korean J Dermatol.  2024 Jul;62(6):343-348.

Efficacy of Low Dose Propranolol for Treatment of Infantile Hemangioma in Korea

• Paik K
• Na JI

Abstract

Background
Infantile hemangioma is the most prevalent benign vascular tumor in children, with propranolol being the first line systemic treatment. However, the efficacy of low dose propranolol has not been studied yet.
Objective
This study aims to explore the effectiveness of low dose propranolol in treating infantile hemangioma in Korea.
Methods
This study is a single-arm, retrospective cohort study to evaluating the efficacy of low dose propranolol (1 mg/kg/d) in treating infantile hemangioma. We collected data of patient’s demographics, lesion characteristics, duration and dosage of propranolol use, residual scar, and other treatments used. We evaluate treatment response of infantile hemangioma based on changes in the size of the lesion. Initially, patients were prescribed propranolol at 1 mg/kg/d and monitored on a monthly basis. In cases where the dermatologist deemed the treatment response was clinically insufficient, the dosage was increased to 2 mg/kg/d.
Results
We analyzed 68 patients diagnosed with infantile hemangioma. A total of 86.76% of the patients (59/68) were exclusively treated with propranolol at 1 mg/kg/d, resulting in complete regression in 38.98% and partial regression in 61.02%. A total of 13.24% of patients (9/68) had their dosage increased to 2 mg/kg/d due to insufficient effectiveness, which led to improved conditions in nearly 90% of these patients.
Conclusion
Low dose propranolol (1 mg/kg) is effective in treating infantile hemangioma. Low dose propranolol is recommended to be used in combination with other treatments or for patients at high risk of propranolol adverse effects.

Keyword

Infantile hemangioma; Propranolol