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 hemangioma 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 hemangioma. The short-term results were excellent and the side effects minimal.