BACKGROUND: Capillary haemangiomas are vascular tumours of childhood characterised by proliferative and involutional phases and affecting 1% to 2% of newborns. Recently, recombinant interferons have been used in the treatment of life and sight threatening complications of these tumours. METHODS: The history, results of examination, investigations, management and outcome of two patients with sight-threatening orbital capillary haemangiomas treated with recombinant interferon alpha-2a and 2b respectively were reviewed. RESULTS: Orbital and systemic lesions displayed good response to interferons. Side effects noted were transient pyrexia and elevated serum aminotransferase levels. Disturbed liver function test results occurred in one case and normalised with temporary cessation of therapy. CONCLUSIONS: The interferons are a useful alternative treatment of orbital capillary haemangioma in selected cases.
BACKGROUND:Capillary haemangiomas are vascular tumours of childhood characterised by proliferative and involutional phases and affecting 1% to 2% of newborns. Recently, recombinant interferons have been used in the treatment of life and sight threatening complications of these tumours. METHODS: The history, results of examination, investigations, management and outcome of two patients with sight-threatening orbital capillary haemangiomas treated with recombinant interferon alpha-2a and 2b respectively were reviewed. RESULTS: Orbital and systemic lesions displayed good response to interferons. Side effects noted were transient pyrexia and elevated serum aminotransferase levels. Disturbed liver function test results occurred in one case and normalised with temporary cessation of therapy. CONCLUSIONS: The interferons are a useful alternative treatment of orbital capillary haemangioma in selected cases.