How to treat and eliminate neonatal hemangioma

Neonatal hemangiomas are often gradually eliminated through drug therapy (such as oral and topical beta-blockers), physical therapy (such as laser therapy) and surgical treatment. The appropriate method is selected according to the size, location and growth rate of the hemangioma.

1) Drug treatment

Drug treatment is one of the first choices for neonatal hemangiomas. Commonly used drugs are beta-blockers, such as oral propranolol and topical timolol gel. These drugs can inhibit the vasodilation and proliferation of hemangiomas, shrinking or even disappearing them. Medication should be taken under the guidance of a doctor, especially oral medications, which may cause side effects such as hypoglycemia or slow heartbeat, and require regular follow-up.

2) Physical therapy: laser therapy

Pulsed dye laser (PDL) is an effective treatment for superficial or small neonatal hemangiomas. This therapy uses laser light to selectively destroy blood vessels without damaging surrounding healthy tissue. Treatment usually requires multiple sessions and is suitable for localized hemangiomas, but has limited effect on deeper skin and larger lesions.

3) Surgical treatment

Surgical treatment is mainly suitable for severe or functional hemangiomas, such as hemangiomas around the eyes or airways, which may compress normal tissues or organs. The most common surgical method is tumor resection, followed by necessary repair after surgery. Surgery is suitable for cases that are ineffective with drugs and laser treatments, but it is generally not the first choice because of the large trauma.

4) Watch and wait

For hemangiomas that grow slowly and have no special symptoms, most tend to stop growing or even gradually disappear after 6 months of birth. Doctors may recommend regular follow-up observation to avoid unnecessary intervention.

Whether a neonatal hemangioma needs treatment depends on its size, location, and growth. Parents should seek medical evaluation in a timely manner and take appropriate treatment methods according to the doctor's advice to help the baby grow up healthily.