Incidence and clinical factors associated with ulceration in infantile hemangiomas.

Abstract

Ulceration is an important complication in infantile hemangiomas (IHs). Prior to the use of β-blockers, the estimated incidence of this complication in a referral population was between 15% and 30%. The incidence and factors associated with ulceration have not been systematically studied since the emergence of β-blocker therapy. Examine the incidence and clinical predictors for ulceration in IHs. Retrospective study at tertiary referral centers. Compared with a previous large pre-propranolol cohort study, ulceration occurred at a significantly lower incidence of 11.4%. Clinical factors associated with ulceration included partial segmental morphology, location in the diaper area, and size greater than 5 cm. Higher risk of ulceration in Black patients was observed, suggesting barriers to care including delayed diagnosis and referral to specialty care. Retrospective design at tertiary referral centers. Compared with reports before the use of β-blockers became widespread, the incidence of ulceration in IHs has decreased. However, it continues to be a relatively frequent complication of IH.