Topical propranolol hydrochloride gel for superficial infantile hemangiomas.

The clinical efficacy and safety of topical propranolol hydrochloride gel in the treatment of superficial infantile hemangiomas (IHs) were assessed. Fifty-one cases of IHs from Oct. 2010 to Sept. 2011 were subjected to the topical propranolol hydrochloride gel intervention in Fuzhou General Hospital of Nanjing Military Commands, China. Changes in size, texture, color, peak systolic velocity of the hemangiomas, resistance index and adverse effects were observed. The results were evaluated by using Achauer system, and responses of IHs to pranpronolol were considered scale II (poor) in 4 patients (17.24%), scale II (moderate) in 18 patients (24.14%), scale III (good) in 22 patients (44.83%) and scale IV (excellent) in 7 patients (13.79%). The response of superficial hemangiomas was significantly better than other hemangiomas (P<0.05), and no differences in response were found among different primary sites (P>0.05). Our study indicates that topical application of 3% propranolol hydrochloride gel is effective and safe in treating IHs.