Treatment of infantile parotid hemangioma with propranolol

Objective To evaluate the short-term results and safety of propranolol for the treatment of infantile parotid hemangioma.Methods Oral propranolol was administered to 17 infants with parotid heamngiom at a dose of 1.0-1.5 mg per kilogram of body weight per day.The patients were revisited once a week.The changes of the tumor size, texture and colour were monitored and recorded at a regular interval.The adverse effects after medication were observed and managed accordingly.The short-term results were evaluated using a 4 scales system.Results Among the 17 patients treated, the follow-up time was 5 to 10 months.The overall response was scale I in 0 patient, scale Ⅱ in 0 patients, scale Ⅲ in 5 patients, and scale Ⅳ in 12 patients.No serious adverse effects were encountered.Conclusions Oral propranolol at a lower dose is a safe and effective method for the treatment of infantile parotid heamngioma.The short-term results were excellent and the side effects minimal. Key words: Hemangioma; Parotid gland; Propranolol