The use of propranolol in the treatment of subglottic hemangiomas: A literature review and meta-analysis

Scott Hardison, Wen Wan, Kelley M. Dodson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

28 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objectives 1) Describe the origins of the use of propranolol in the treatment of subglottic hemangiomas, 2) Perform meta-analysis of all case reports and series in which propranolol was used to treat subglottic hemangiomas. Study design Literature review and meta-analysis. Methods A total of 61 cases were identified from 19 scholarly articles. Cases were assessed by parameters including age at diagnosis, presence of other hemangiomas, percent airway obstructed, dose of propranolol, treatment duration, age at therapy termination, use of steroids, and treatment failure. Treatment failure was defined as: 1) Need for surgery after initiation of propranolol, 2) Return of symptoms, or 3) Endoscopic worsening/recurrence of hemangioma. All data was subjected to comprehensive statistical analysis. Results Though not statistically significant, a trend was noted towards a decreased treatment failure rate with increasing doses of propranolol (p = 0.0563). The use of concurrent steroids was associated with a higher failure rate (p = 0.0487). Notably, no associations were observed between the presence of additional hemangiomas, prior surgery, or increased initial percent airway obstruction with treatment failure. Conclusion Propranolol is rapidly becoming the standard of care in the treatment of subglottic hemangiomas. Despite widespread adoption, the rarity of this condition has limited previous studies to case reports and small series. No evidence-based guidelines exist for proper dosing of propranolol. The results of this meta-analysis suggest a benefit to higher doses of propranolol (3 mg/kg/day), though further investigation is needed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)175-180
Number of pages6
JournalInternational Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
Volume90
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 1 2016
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Hemangiomas
  • Propranolol
  • Subglottic obstruction

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
  • Otorhinolaryngology

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