Oral propranolol for circumscribed choroidal hemangioma

Abstract

Introduction: Several therapeutic approaches have been developed to treat choroidal hemangioma. However, all these therapies are associated with a potential risk of damaging the overlying retina. Case Report: We report a case of circumscribed choroidal hemangioma (CCH) in a 59-year-old man refractory to laser treatment. Visual acuity was 20/200 and a serous macular detachment was present. The CCH was treated with oral propanolol, whereupon visual acuity improved to 20/20 and the macular detachment resolved without systemic or local adverse effects. Discussion: Propanolol is a β-blocker commonly used in cardiology that may induce endothelium vasoconstriction and inhibit endothelial proliferation. It has been shown to be effective in infantile facial hemangiomas, and proved safe and effective for the CCH in our patient. Further studies are needed to confirm our observation. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.