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Treatments and drugs
By Mayo Clinic staffThe majority of hemangiomas never need any form of treatment. Treatment of hemangiomas is somewhat controversial. Some parents feel that hemangioma treatment is necessary because the marks can be disfiguring and may cause social or psychological problems. Doctors, however, may be hesitant to treat a hemangioma that isn't causing physical problems because hemangiomas usually fade gradually without treatment, and treatments have potential side effects. If the growth interferes with your child's vision or causes other problems, treatment options may include:
- Laser surgery. Lasers can stop the growth of a hemangioma. Sometimes lasers can be used to remove a hemangioma or treat sores on a hemangioma that won't heal. The risks are potentially serious, including pain, infection, bleeding, scarring and changes in skin color.
- Corticosteroid medications. Corticosteroids can be injected, given by mouth or applied to the skin. These medications are most effective when they're given during the growth phase. Sometimes long-term or repeated treatment is needed. The risks are potentially serious, including poor growth, high blood sugar, high blood pressure and clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye (cataract).
Because researchers want to find other treatments that are effective, with fewer side effects, research is ongoing. Some newer, though still experimental, treatments include beta blockers, interferon alfa and topical immune suppressants.
If you're considering treatment for your child's hemangioma, carefully discuss this with your child's doctor. Remember, most infantile hemangiomas disappear on their own during childhood.
