Infantile hemangiomas with conjunctival involvement: An underreported occurrence. Issue 6 (16th November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Theiler, Martin; Baselga, Eulalia; Gerth‐Kahlert, Christina; Mathes, Erin F.; Schwieger‐Briel, Agnes; Chaloupka, Karla; Weibel, Lisa; Frieden, Ilona J.
• Is Part Of: Pediatric dermatology. Volume 34:Issue 6(2017:Nov./Dec.)
• Page Start: 681
• Page End: 685
• Publication Date: 2017-11-16
• Subjects: conjunctiva -- eye -- infantile hemangioma; Pediatric dermatology -- Periodicals; Children -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.925
• DOI: 10.1111/pde.13305
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0736-8046

Abstract

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) involving the conjunctiva are only anecdotally reported in the literature and little is known about their clinical course. In a retrospective case series we aimed to better delineate the clinical presentation, complications, and response to treatment of this uncommon subtype of IH. A classification of conjunctival IH is proposed. Methods: Medical charts at three academic pediatric dermatology institutions were retrospectively analyzed. Data were collected on the clinical characteristics, ophthalmologic findings, treatments, and outcomes of 22 individuals with conjunctival IH. Results: Growth characteristics of conjunctival IH closely mirrored those of their cutaneous counterparts. Ophthalmologic abnormalities were associated with the IH in six individuals (27%); in three, they were considered severe. Seventeen subjects (77%) required treatment, most commonly because of risk of ocular compromise. All treated individuals responded favorably to topical timolol or systemic propranolol. Conclusion: Conjunctival IH have clinical characteristics similar to those of cutaneous IH and respond readily to beta‐blocker treatment. Ocular complications may occur in a minority of individuals receiving treatment.