Topical Timolol Solution for Infantile Hemangioma of the Eyelid

Infantile hemangiomas located near the eye may cause amblyopia, astigmatism, proptosis, ptosis, permanent visual impairment, and even blindness. Until recently, oral corticosteroids have been the standard treatment. Less commonly used options include intralesional corticosteroids, interferon alpha 2a, laser, embolization, immunomodulators, and surgery. Since the off-label use of systemic propranolol for infantile hemangiomas was first reported (JW Dermatol Jun 20 2008), its use in hemangioma treatment has grown. However, all systemic therapies for hemangiomas carry risks for adverse effects (JW Dermatol Nov 6 2009). Some investigators have focused on the use of another beta-blocker, timolol. Timolol solution is the most commonly prescribed …