Capillary haemangioma of the eyelids and orbit: a clinical review of the safety and efficacy of intralesional steroid.

PURPOSE: To describe the presenting features, investigations, treatment and outcome of a series of patients with capillary haemangioma of the eyelids and orbit.

METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 21 patients, presenting between the years 1985 and 2000. Effectiveness of treatment was determined by final visual acuity and cosmetic result.

RESULTS: Lesions were more common in females and the upper eyelid was a definite site of predilection. A total of 87.5% of lesions presented within 6 weeks of birth. Intralesional steroid injections were received by 79% of patients. Amblyopia was a definite complication. No local or systemic complications were associated with intralesional steroid injection. Surgery and laser treatment were reserved for persistent lesions.

CONCLUSION: Early recognition and prompt treatment with intralesional steroid prevents early occlusion amblyopia, but follow-up and management of refractive amblyopia with glasses and patching is necessary in the longer term. In this series, intralesional steroid proved to be a safe effective treatment.