Management of Infantile Hemangiomas of the Airway

Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2018 Feb;51(1):133-146. doi: 10.1016/j.otc.2017.09.001.

Abstract

Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) of the airway are far less common than their cutaneous counterparts, and their symptoms mimic those of viral croup. As a result, by the time these lesions are diagnosed, they are often advanced and causing airway compromise. Fortunately, the evolution of propranolol as an effective and safe pharmacotherapy has simplified management of IH and reduced the likelihood of complications previously seen with steroid therapy and surgery. Nevertheless, the otolaryngologist must be prepared with an alternate plan to manage lesions refractory to pharmacotherapy. This article reviews the clinical presentation and current management of IHs of the airway.

Keywords: Airway; Hemangioma; Laser; Management; Propranolol; Subglottic; Surgery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Airway Obstruction / diagnosis
  • Airway Obstruction / etiology
  • Airway Obstruction / therapy*
  • Hemangioma / complications
  • Hemangioma / diagnosis
  • Hemangioma / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Laser Therapy
  • Propranolol / therapeutic use
  • Respiratory Tract Neoplasms / complications
  • Respiratory Tract Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Respiratory Tract Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Thoracic Surgical Procedures
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Propranolol