Successful discontinuation of propranolol for infantile hemangiomas of the head and neck at 12 months of age

Background: Although propranolol can be an effective primary medical therapy for infantile hemangiomas of the head and neck, the duration of treatment and time to discontinue propranolol is unclear. Objective: The objective of this study is to determine the duration of treatment and age at which propranolol may be successfully discontinued in children with infantile hemangiomas of the head and neck. Methods: A review of all patients presenting to a pediatric vascular anomalies clinic from January 2008 to December 2011 was performed. Those with head and neck infantile hemangiomas who completed propranolol therapy were included. Each patient's records were reviewed for demographics, clinical response to propranolol, age at discontinuation of propranolol, and adverse events. Results: Forty-five patients were included for review (mean age at presentation, 3.5 months) with all demonstrating positive responses. The mean age at discontinuation of propranolol was 11.8 months of age (range, 8-15 months) with a mean treatment duration of 6.5 months (range, 3-11 months). No recurrences were noted over a mean follow-up period of 19.9 months (range, 10-28 months). Conclusion: Discontinuation of propranolol at approximately 12 months of age was found to be appropriate in our study population.