CLINICAL EFFICACY OF TACROLIMUS IN INFANTILE HAEMANGIOMA.

Corresponding Author:
Dr. Arun Achar,
3K, Block-4, 1 Jubilee Park,
Kolkata-700033.
E-mail: achararun@rediffmail.com

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

Infantile haemangiomas (IH) are the most common benign vascular tumours in childhood and occur in up to 10% of infants. Majority of IHs are apparent by the first month of life, rapidly grow till 5 months of age and then undergo a slow but variable regression for months to years. Some IHs, mostly in relation to anatomical site is associated with risks for the patient. Common treatment modalities include topical and systemic steroids, topical timolol- each with individual set of adverse effects. Immune response has been implicated in the involution of IH. Tacrolimus, an immune response modifier applied topically has been already seen to be effective. The present study was an effort to explore this modality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective interventional study was carried out over 12 months. All children newly presenting with superficial IH were considered for the study. Completion of treatment was defined as either 6 months of treatment or full involution (whichever was earlier).

RESULTS

Two patients (18.2%) showed excellent response while 5 patients (45.4%) had good response. Three patients (27.3%) showed moderate response, while 1 patient (9.1%) had poor response. Given the size of populations considered the figures were not statistically significant, but efficacy of tacrolimus was confirmed.

CONCLUSION

In the absence of a single best option for the treatment of IH, tacrolimus may be another agent in the treatment of IH. In the relative absence of side effects, this drug may be used safely especially when compliance and followup issues are important.

KEYWORDS

Infantile Haemangioma, Tacrolimus, Immune Response.