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Infantile hemangioma (IH) is the most common pediatric vascular tumor. Its pathogenesis is poorly understood but thought to represent an aberrant response of pluripotent stem cells to stimuli such as hypoxia and the renin-angiotensin system. IH usually appears during the first few weeks of life and follows a characteristic natural trajectory of proliferation and involution. Their clinical appearance depends on their depth and distribution. Classification comprises superficial, mixed, and deep IH as well as IH with minimal or arrested growth. Multifocal IHs are more likely to be associated with infantile hepatic hemangioma and, although the need for screening based on a specific number of IH has been recently debated, 5 remains the most widely acceptable cutoff point. Large facial IHs warrant investigation for posterior fossa malformations, hemangioma, arterial anomalies, cardiac defects or aortic coarctation and eye anomalies (PHACE) syndrome. Lumbar IHs warrant investigation for lower body IH and other cutaneous defects, urogenital anomalies, ulceration, myelopathy, bony deformity, anorectal malformations, arterial anomalies, and renal anomalies (LUMBAR) syndrome. Complications of IH include ulceration, obstruction or functional impairment, hypothyroidism, and cosmetic sequelae. Differential diagnoses mostly consist of other vascular tumors and vascular malformations, although IH may sometimes mimic nonvascular tumors or developmental anomalies. Diagnosis is usually clinical and biopsy is rarely indicated. High-frequency ultrasonography may help with the differential diagnosis, particularly with subcutaneous lesions. Referral to other specialists may be required in specific cases.

BACKGROUND Vascular malformations (VMs) involving the hand and forearm in children provide management challenges due to complex anatomy, indispensable functionality and developmental implications. METHODS The institution's Vascular Registry was searched for patients with hand and arm VMs, supplemented by chart review of included patients. RESULTS Twenty-one patients were identified, 52% male, with mean presenting age 5.2 years. Venous malformations predominated (71%), followed by lymphatic-venous (19%), lymphatic (5%) and glomuvenous (5%). Symptoms included pain (76%), swelling (71%), cosmetic concerns (81%), functional compromise (29%) and stiffness (5%). Imaging modality was ultrasound (100%), and magnetic resonance imaging (71%). Treatment included compression (62%), sclerotherapy (62%) and surgery (24%). Post-sclerotherapy ultrasounds showed complete sclerosis (25%), near complete sclerosis (58%) and partial sclerosis (17%). Post-surgery, patients reported improved cosmesis (80%), size (100%), pain (60%) and function (40%). Complications occurred in 24%, including bleeding, digital ischaemia and thrombosis. Mean follow-up was 3.4 years. CONCLUSION Children with low-flow VMs of the hand and forearm experience significant symptoms and functional limitations. A multidisciplinary approach to management ensures optimal outcomes.

OBJECTIVE To assess propranolol's impact on sleep when used in infants and toddlers with infantile hemangioma (80% under 6 months old). METHODS Parents and caregivers of infants and toddlers with infantile hemangioma presenting to a tertiary pediatric hospital's dermatology clinic and assessed by their dermatologist as requiring propranolol treatment were invited to participate. All participants completed an extended version of the Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire (BISQ) prior to propranolol treatment initiation, which acted as the control, and 5 weeks after treatment commencement. Objective data were gathered through actigraphy, which utilizes a small wristwatch-like device that measures sleep-wake patterns, for 1 week prior to initiation and again 5 weeks after commencement. BISQ responses and actigraphy values from the two time points were compared. RESULTS 55 infants and toddlers (aged 0-2.8 years, 80% under 6 months) were included. Sleep was reported as only a minor problem by most parents 5 weeks after starting propranolol (P = .049). Subgroup analysis of 45 infants

The majority of infantile hemangiomas (IH) can be managed conservatively, but for those requiring active treatment, management has been revolutionized in the last decade by the discovery of propranolol. Patients that may require active intervention should receive specialist review, ideally before 5 weeks of age to mitigate the risk of sequelae. Propranolol can commence for most infants in the outpatient setting and the most frequently employed dosing regimen is 1 mg/kg twice daily. In the future, β-blockers with a more-selective mechanism of action, such as atenolol, show some promise. In recalcitrant lesions, systemic corticosteroids or sirolimus may be considered. For small, superficial IHs, topical timolol maleate or pulsed dye laser may be considered. Where the IH involutes with cutaneous sequelae, a range of interventions have been reported, including surgery, laser, and embolization. IHs have a well-described clinical trajectory and are readily diagnosed and managed via telemedicine. Algorithms have been constructed to stratify those patients who can be managed remotely from those who warrant in-person review during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Comment in :Who regulates whom: ZNF341 is an additional player in the STAT3/TH17 song. [Sci Immunol. 2018]; International audience; Heterozygosity for human signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) dominant-negative (DN) mutations underlies an autosomal dominant form of hyper-immunoglobulin E syndrome (HIES). We describe patients with an autosomal recessive form of HIES due to loss-of-function mutations of a previously uncharacterized gene, ZNF341 ZNF341 is a transcription factor that resides in the nucleus, where it binds a specific DNA motif present in various genes, including the STAT3 promoter. The patients' cells have low basal levels of STAT3 mRNA and protein. The autoinduction of STAT3 production, activation, and function by STAT3-activating cytokines is strongly impaired. Like patients with STAT3 DN mutations, ZNF341-deficient patients lack T helper 17 (TH17) cells, have an excess of TH2 cells, and have low memory B cells due to the tight dependence of STAT3 activity on ZNF341 in lymphocytes. Their milder extra-hematopoietic manifestations and stronger inflammatory responses reflect the lower ZNF341 dependence of STAT3 activity in other cell types. Human ZNF341 is essential for the STAT3 transcription-dependent autoinduction and sustained activity of STAT3.

The duration of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression after glucocorticoid treatment is uncertain.We aimed to determine the duration of HPA axis suppression in prednisolone-treated infants and the age at which circadian variation in salivary cortisol is established in healthy infants.Before the adoption of propranolol treatment by the Vascular Birthmarks Clinic, 12 infants with infantile hemangioma received high-dose prednisolone for 12 to 25 weeks' duration, weaned over 4 to 6 weeks, and ceased at age 21 to 31 weeks. Parents collected serial salivary samples at two time points per day (before first and last feed) until circadian variation in salivary cortisol (measured by radioimmunoassay) was observed, when a confirmatory 1 μg Synacthen test was performed. Ten healthy control infants had serial salivary cortisol measurements to determine the age at which circadian variation is established.We defined circadian variation as evening salivary cortisol50% of the early morning level on two consecutive sampling weeks.Circadian variation appeared within 6 weeks (median 2.7, range 1.4-5.4) of prednisolone cessation. All confirmatory Synacthen tests were normal (peak serum cortisol600 nmol/L) and were performed within 12 weeks of prednisolone cessation. Healthy controls developed circadian variation at median 16 weeks of age (range 8-24).HPA recovery occurred within 6 to 12 weeks, shorter than empirical recommendations, to give stress cover for 6 to 12 months. Reduced duration of stress-cover precautions may reduce parental anxiety and side effects from unnecessary glucocorticoid use. Healthy control infants established circadian variation in salivary cortisol between 2 and 6 months of age.

PHACE syndrome represents the association of large infantile hemangiomas of the head and neck with brain, cerebrovascular, cardiac, ocular, and ventral or midline defects. Cardiac and cerebrovascular anomalies are the most common extracutaneous features of PHACE, and they also constitute the greatest source of potential morbidity. Congenital heart disease in PHACE is incompletely described, and this study was conducted to better characterize its features. This study of the International PHACE Syndrome Registry represents the largest central review of clinical, radiologic, and histopathologic data for cardiovascular anomalies in patients with PHACE to date. Sixty-two (41%) of 150 subjects had intracardiac, aortic arch, or brachiocephalic vessel anomalies. Aberrant origin of a subclavian artery was the most common cardiovascular anomaly (present in 31 (21%) of150 subjects). Coarctation was the second most common anomaly, identified in 28 (19%) of 150 subjects, and can be missed clinically in patients with PHACE because of the frequent association of arch obstruction with aberrant subclavian origin. Twenty-three (37%) of 62 subjects with cardiovascular anomalies required procedural intervention. A greater percentage of hemangiomas were located on the left side of the head and neck in patients with coarctation (46% vs 39%); however, hemangioma distribution did not predict the presence of cardiovascular anomalies overall. In conclusion, PHACE is associated with a high risk of congenital heart disease. Cardiac and aortic arch imaging with detailed assessment of arch patency and brachiocephalic origins is essential for any patient suspected of having PHACE. Longitudinal investigation is needed to determine the long-term outcomes of cardiovascular anomalies in PHACE.

Capillary malformation-arteriovenous malformation (CM-AVM) is an autosomal-dominant disorder, caused by heterozygous RASA1 mutations, and manifesting multifocal CMs and high risk for fast-flow lesions. A limited number of patients have been reported, raising the question of the phenotypic borders. We identified new patients with a clinical diagnosis of CM-AVM, and patients with overlapping phenotypes. RASA1 was screened in 261 index patients with: CM-AVM (n=100), common CM(s) (port-wine stain; n=100), Sturge-Weber syndrome (n=37), or isolated AVM(s) (n=24). Fifty-eight distinct RASA1 mutations (43 novel) were identified in 68 index patients with CM-AVM and none in patients with other phenotypes. A novel clinical feature was identified: cutaneous zones of numerous small white pale halos with a central red spot. An additional question addressed in this study was the second-hit hypothesis as a pathophysiological mechanism for CM-AVM. One tissue from a patient with a germline RASA1 mutation was available. The analysis of the tissue showed loss of the wild-type RASA1 allele. In conclusion, mutations in RASA1 underscore the specific CM-AVM phenotype and the clinical diagnosis is based on identifying the characteristic CMs. The high incidence of fast-flow lesions warrants careful clinical and radiologic examination, and regular follow-up. (C) 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

OBJECTIVE: Timolol maleate 0.5% gel is a safe and effective medication for treating superficial infantile hemangiomas (IHs) in infants with a median age of 9 weeks. METHODS: Forty-one infants who had superficial IHs without ulceration and not near mucosal surfaces were recruited and randomly assigned to placebo and treatment (timolol maleate 0.5% gel) groups. Efficacy was assessed by performing blinded volume measurements at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 and blinded investigator photograph scoring at weeks 0, 12, and 24. Safety was assessed by measuring heart rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressure at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24. RESULTS: Fifteen of the 19 infants receiving treatment and 17 of the 22 infants receiving placebo completed the study. Significant color change on the blinded photographic scores was noted at week 24 of the study (P = .003). There was a significantly higher proportion of treated IHs that reduced in size by >5% at weeks 20 and 24 (P < .02). The predicted proportion of IH volume change was also significantly less for treated IHs from week 16 onward when compared with placebo (P < .05). There was no significant variation in blood pressure and heart rate between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Topical timolol maleate 0.5% gel with a maximum dose of 0.5 mg per day is a safe and effective option for small superficial IHs that have not ulcerated and are not on mucosal surfaces.

Background Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant condition associated with epilepsy, benign tumors, and variable neurodevelopmental outcomes. The diagnosis is most commonly made after epilepsy onset, although a proportion are diagnosed prenatally. Presymptomatic or early treatment with agents such as vigabatrin offers the hope of improved neurodevelopmental outcome. Therefore early diagnosis, before the onset of seizures, is important. In a cohort of children with TSC, we evaluated the age and mode of initial presentation, assessed the neurocognitive and epilepsy outcome, and analyzed whether those diagnosed before the onset of seizures have a different outcome compared with those diagnosed postseizures. Methods We reviewed patients at the TSC clinic at Sydney Children's Hospital who were born between 2001 and 2015. Results A total of 74 patients were identified: 34 (46%) diagnosed preseizure (21 prenatally) and 40 (54%) postseizure. In the preseizure cohort, 77% presented with cardiac rhabdomyoma(s) and 72% developed seizures. The postseizure cohort had more severe epilepsy, requiring more antiepileptic drugs for seizure control (median five, compared with three in the preseizure cohort [ P = 0.01]). Developmental disability occurred in 65% of the preseizure cohort compared with 72% of the postseizure cohort. Severe developmental disability most often occurred in children who had their first seizure before age 12 months. Conclusion Children who are diagnosed with TSC before the onset of seizures have less severe epilepsy and better developmental outcome.

The cause of PHACE syndrome is unknown. In a study of 218 patients, we examined potential prenatal risk factors for PHACE syndrome. Rates of pre-eclampsia and placenta previa in affected individuals were significantly greater than in the general population. No significant risk factor differences were detected between male and female subjects.

Background: Most arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are localized and occur sporadically. However, they also can be multifocal in autosomal-dominant disorders, such as hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and capillary malformation (CM)-AVM. Previously, we identified RASA1 mutations in 50% of patients with CM-AVM. Herein we studied non-RASA1 patients to further elucidate the pathogenicity of CMs and AVMs. Methods: We conducted a genome-wide linkage study on a CM-AVM family. Whole-exome sequencing was also performed on 9 unrelated CM-AVM families. We identified a candidate gene and screened it in a large series of patients. The influence of several missense variants on protein function was also studied in vitro. Results: We found evidence for linkage in 2 loci. Whole-exome sequencing data unraveled 4 distinct damaging variants in EPHB4 in 5 families that cosegregated with CM-AVM. Overall, screening of EPHB4 detected 47 distinct mutations in 54 index patients: 27 led to a premature stop codon or splice-site alteration, suggesting loss of function. The other 20 are nonsynonymous variants that result in amino acid substitutions. In vitro expression of several mutations confirmed loss of function of EPHB4. The clinical features included multifocal CMs, telangiectasias, and AVMs. Conclusions: We found EPHB4 mutations in patients with multifocal CMs associated with AVMs. The phenotype, CM-AVM2, mimics RASA1 -related CM-AVM1 and also hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. RASA1 -encoded p120RASGAP is a direct effector of EPHB4. Our data highlight the pathogenetic importance of this interaction and indicts EPHB4-RAS-ERK signaling pathway as a major cause for AVMs.

Venous malformations are slow-flow congenital vascular malformations that enlarge as the child ages and may be associated with localised intravascular coagulation, a consumptive coagulopathy characterised by elevated D-dimer and decreased fibrinogen levels. The authors review the known correlations between localised intravascular coagulation and venous malformation number, size and planes involved, and call attention to the concept of the progression of localised intravascular coagulopathy as the child ages and their venous malformations enlarge. The authors also discuss the identified therapeutic options for its investigation, management and treatment, including compression garments, anti-coagulation therapy, sclerotherapy, endovascular laser, surgical excision and sirolimus (rapamycin). Evidence for protocol improvements that may be instigated for the optimal physical and medical therapy of venous malformations complicated by localised intravascular coagulopathy is reviewed.

Background Dysregulation of the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway is the underlying pathogenic mechanism in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Other syndromes caused by genetic alterations in this pathway frequently manifest as vascular anomalies or asymmetric overgrowth. Rarely, these features have been documented in TSC. Objective To collate cases of TSC with vascular anomaly or overgrowth that have been published and to assemble additional recent cases, as this finding has been underreported. Methods TSC cases from three pediatric dermatology referral centers on two continents were reviewed to identify individuals noted to have hemihypertrophy or vascular anomalies. Results We report five additional cases of TSC associated with vascular anomalies or overgrowth that contribute to our understanding of some of the pathways and treatments involved in vascular anomalies. Conclusion Hemihypertrophy and vascular anomalies may be more frequent in the setting of TSC than previously appreciated. A common pathogenetic mechanism may tie these manifestations together.

To define the clinical characteristics, investigations, management and outcomes of lymphoedema in a paediatric cohort.A retrospective chart review of children with lymphoedema seen at two tertiary paediatric hospitals since 1998. Telephone interviews with parents were performed when information was missing. Information recorded included demographic data, features of diagnosis and clinical presentation, symptoms, complications and treatment.A total of 86 patients with lymphoedema were identified. Eighty cases (93%) were primary and six cases (7%) were secondary. Most were female (60%). Location of swelling was most commonly the lower limbs (94%). There were 13 cases (15%) of genital involvement. Swelling presented in the first 12 months of life in 60% of primary lymphoedema patients. Complications of lymphoedema occurred in 73% of patients. Lymphoscintigraphy was the most common investigation used (65%), followed by ultrasound (57%) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (35%). Eight of the 48 (17%) lymphoscintigraphs produced a false negative result or were inconclusive with a correct diagnosis subsequently made clinically and using MRI. Average time to diagnosis was 9 months. Lymphoedema was managed with compression garments (99%), manual lymph drainage (97%) and multilayered bandaging (68%). Eight patients had an operative procedure as a part of management.Primary lymphoedema is more common than secondary lymphoedema in children. Onset tends to be during infancy for both males and females, and the lower limb is typically involved. Causes of secondary lymphoedema are diverse and rare. Diagnosis in children is often delayed but is possible based on history and physical examination alone and when further investigation is necessary MRI is effective.

Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are the most common tumor of infancy and have been estimated to occur in 4% of infants. Only two previous incidence studies of IH in a healthy population have been published, and both of these were performed in the first week of life. The objective was to identify the incidence of IH in an Australian neonatal population and characterize the risk factors. All women who presented to the postnatal ward in a 200-bed maternity hospital were asked to complete a questionnaire. Details of maternal history and birth details were recorded. Two follow-up emails 3 and 6 weeks after discharge were sent to all mothers who consented, asking if their baby had developed an IH. Babies reported to have an IH were seen in clinic to confirm the diagnosis. Details were collected from 1,034 mothers of 1,065 babies; 28 (2.6%) of the infants developed IH. Babies that developed IH were more likely to be female (p

Infantile hemangioma (IH) is the most common vascular tumor in early childhood. Ulceration is the most frequent complication, and its management can be challenging. We present 6 cases of ulcerated IH at a single pediatric center, which responded to oral propranolol within 2 to 6 weeks. We recommend that oral propranolol therapy be considered for the management of ulcerated IH as first-line treatment.

Background/Objectives: There are limited data on the clinical presentation and progression of pediatric cutaneous lymphoma. This study focuses on the clinical characteristics of pediatric patients with mycosis fungoides (MF). Materials and Methods: This descriptive study presents clinical characteristics of 22 pediatric patients with MF, enrolled in the international Childhood Registry for Cutaneous Lymphomas (CRCL). Results: The mean ages at onset and at diagnosis were 7.5 (SD 3.8 years) years and 9.9 (SD 3.4) years, respectively. The most common MF presentation was patch stage (68%), followed by hypopigmentation (59%) and plaque stage disease (50%). Epidermotropism and lymphocytic atypia were the most common pathologic features, found in 89% and 85%, respectively. Cerebriform nuclei were noted in 42%, and Pautrier microabscesses were seen in 16% of cases. A cytotoxic pattern was more commonly seen (67% vs 33%), and clonality was detected in 21% (3 of 14) of patients. All patients presented with early-stage disease and received skin-directed therapy (topical steroids, 73%; light therapy, 54%; or combination therapy, 35%). Conclusions: Pediatric patients with MF present in the first decade of life, with early-stage disease and unusual forms such as hypopigmented variant. Further patient enrolment will provide information regarding natural history, treatment response, and overall prognosis of pediatric cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL).

We present two female children aged 7 years with extensive multifocal venous malformations complicated by chronic localized intravascular coagulation. In both cases ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed extensive venous malformations involving the skin, mucous membranes and pharynx, which were not apparent on clinical examination. Haematological investigations demonstrated persistent elevation of the D-dimer, consistent with chronic localized intravascular coagulation. The course of one patient was complicated by the development of multiple painful thromboses at distant sites following percutaneous sclerotherapy. Persistent elevation of the D-dimer occurring in association with large venous and veno-lymphatic malformations has been termed chronic localized intravascular coagulation, and is thought to occur due to thrombosis at sites of stagnant blood flow within venous malformations. It is of clinical concern due to the potential for transformation into serious thrombohaemorrhagic coagulation disorders, including disseminated intravascular coagulation. While previously described in association with large segmental venous malformations, these cases demonstrate the occurrence of chronic localized intravascular coagulation as a complication of disseminated multifocal venous malformations.

Purpose Treatment of the capillary vascular malformation (port-wine stain) in Sturge-Weber syndrome with the use of a laser is helpful cosmetically. However, concerns have been raised that laser obliteration of port-wine stains may result in ocular hypertension. The aim of this study was to review clinical features and management of ocular complications of SWS and assess the effects of dermatological laser treatment on the incidence of glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Methods This retrospective cohort study was conducted in an institutional setting. All patients had involvement of the face. Patients who underwent skin laser to the port-wine vascular malformation were analyzed further. Ocular involvement, glaucoma, and skin laser treatment and the relationship to ocular hypertension/glaucoma were observed. Results Forty-one Sturge-Weber syndrome patients with port-wine vascular malformation were analyzed. Glaucoma was observed in 24 patients (58.5%) at mean age of 2.9 years (range, 0.0−16.5). Of these, 18 (75.0%) were treated with medical therapy, and 10 (41.7%) required trabeculectomy, with 2 of these requiring Seton implant. Of the 41 patients, 28 (68.3%) underwent laser to face/forehead. Mean age of laser commencement was 5 years (range, 0.4−16.5). Thirteen did not undergo laser treatment. Fourteen of the 28 and 10 of the 13 developed ocular hypertension/glaucoma. Conclusions This retrospective review did not find evidence to suggest that laser treatment of port-wine vascular malformations causes glaucoma or that it can worsen a preexisting ocular hypertension or glaucoma. Statistical analysis was inconclusive.

We present three cases of Kawasaki disease in which an annular eruption was the predominant cutaneous finding. The provisional diagnosis was Stevens-Johnson syndrome. However, the annular lesions were not typical of Stevens-Johnson syndrome: the lips were crusted without mucosal ulceration and the conjunctivitis was non-purulent without corneal erosions. Dermatologists are often involved in the initial assessment of this multisystem disease and should be aware of the variety of cutaneous manifestations, as rapid treatment is known to decrease morbidity and mortality.

A retrospective case series of 53 female patients with incontinentia pigmenti (IP) including 28 secondary cases (female relatives of probands) was reviewed and compared with other series in an attempt to estimate more accurately the true disease burden of patients with IP. We found that, while the frequency of the first three cutaneous stages of IP was comparable with previous studies, none of the secondary cases manifested any serious neurological complications but all displayed stage IV pale anhidrotic reticulate lines on their posterior calves. This important clinical feature of IP in secondary cases has previously been under-represented in studies that often involved only paediatric probands. Hence, mildly affected cases of IP are often undiagnosed and under-represented in case series to date, possibly leading to inappropriately high estimates of neurological and eye involvement. With the availability of genetic testing, it is now feasible to confirm the variability of the phenotype and the risk of complications in IP.

We describe a case of neonatal lupus erythematosus in a 4-week-old male baby presenting with nodules/papules on the plantar surface of both feet. Skin histology of the right foot papule was consistent with lupus erythematosus. Annular lesions more typical of this condition then appeared later and maternal antibodies were positive for speckled antinuclear antibodies (1:5120), anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB(+), rheumatoid factor 1380.0 IU/mL. The patient had no evidence of cardiac, haematological or hepatobilary involvement. Although the mother was asymptomatic, the maternal grandmother had recently been diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome.

BACKGROUND Oral propranolol has been used to treat complicated infantile hemangiomas, although data from randomized, controlled trials to inform its use are limited. METHODS We performed a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, adaptive, phase 2-3 trial assessing the efficacy and safety of a pediatric-specific oral propranolol solution in infants 1 to 5 months of age with proliferating infantile hemangioma requiring systemic therapy. Infants were randomly assigned to receive placebo or one of four propranolol regimens (1 or 3 mg of propranolol base per kilogram of body weight per day for 3 or 6 months). A preplanned interim analysis was conducted to identify the regimen to study for the final efficacy analysis. The primary end point was success (complete or nearly complete resolution of the target hemangioma) or failure of trial treatment at week 24, as assessed by independent, centralized, blinded evaluations of standardized photographs. RESULTS Of 460 infants who underwent randomization, 456 received treatment. On the basis of an interim analysis of the first 188 patients who completed 24 weeks of trial treatment, the regimen of 3 mg of propranolol per kilogram per day for 6 months was selected for the final efficacy analysis. The frequency of successful treatment was higher with this regimen than with placebo (60% vs. 4%, P

While it is recognized that beta-blockers can exacerbate asthma symptoms in older children and adults, there are few descriptions of a similar effect in infants. We describe three infants who developed wheeze during treatment with a beta-blocker for infantile hemangiomas and conclude that physicians should inquire about respiratory symptoms in this group of children.

Questions have been raised as to whether propranolol, which crosses the blood-brain barrier, when used early in life may have an adverse effect on gross motor development. A retrospective survey asking questions about gross motor development was sent to the families of children who had been prescribed oral propranolol for infantile haemangioma at Sydney Children's Hospital between 2008 and 2013. It was found that of the 84 patients surveyed, four were delayed in walking unassisted. There was a statistically significant influence if the child was taking other medications which included prednisolone, vincristine, omeprazole, ranitidine, salbutamol, Flixotide, Timoptol and antibiotics. This was not further analysed in this study because of the low numbers involved. There was no statistically significant influence of gestational age, birth weight or length of time on propranolol. This study adds to the retrospective data available; however large-scale prospective studies are needed to identify unexpected long-term side-effects.

A 9-year old boy presented with a 4-month history of a truncal monomorphic eruption with self-healing papulonecrotic lesions. A skin biopsy revealed a dermal infiltrate of CD4, CD8 and CD30-positive T-cells, consistent with lymphomatoid papulosis. He responded to 4 months of treatment with narrowband UVB phototherapy (311 nm) which stabilised his disease. Five years later he presented with an acute onset of nausea and vomiting, dizziness, headache and ataxia. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed a lesion in the cerebellum and stereotactic resection was undertaken. Histology showed CD4, CD8 and CD30-positive T-cells similar to his skin lesions, with a monoclonal T-cell receptor (TCR) gamma gene rearrangement. Subsequent analysis of the skin detected a monoclonal band of the same size as the cerebellar lesion. Treatment was initiated for a primary central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma but ceased after one course of high-dose methotrexate. Opinion on the pathology was divided as to whether the cerebellar lesion represented an atypical reactive T-cell lymphoproliferative response or a T-cell lymphoma. On follow-up 2 years later, the patient remains clinically and radiologically clear, making CNS lymphoma unlikely.

Venous malformations (VM) are an uncommon vascular malformation with an estimated incidence of 1-2 per 10 000 births. The aim was to define the clinical characteristics and management of children with VM and develop a database for future research.A retrospective chart review of all children presenting to the Vascular Birth Mark clinic with VM from 2000 to 2011.In total 128 patients were included, of whom 59.4% were female, 78.1% were Caucasian and 56.3% resided in a metropolitan area. Most lesions were noted at birth (64.1%) with an average age when VM was first noticed of 17.1 months. The average age of definitive diagnosis was 65.9 months. Locations most frequently involved were the lower limb (41.4%), face (21.1%), trunk (17.2%) and upper limb (15.6%). The most commonly associated conditions were capillary malformation (28.9%) and lymphatic malformation (28.1%). Magnetic resonance imaging was used in the majority of patients (86.7%) to assess tissue distribution of the lesions. Skin and subcutaneous tissue (61.3%), muscle (49.5%) and joints (11.7%) were most commonly involved. Complications of VM resulted in morbidity in 68.8% of cases, most commonly pain (52.3%), thrombophlebitis (17.2%), bleeding (13.3%) and limb length discrepancy (13.3%). Intervention was employed in 68.0%, most often with sclerotherapy (61.8%), compression garments (43.0%), and endovascular laser (17.2%) and surgical management (13.3%).Given the frequent association of VM with other vascular lesions, considerable morbidity, and specialised treatment, a multidisciplinary approach to their management in childhood is important and should include dermatology, diagnostic and interventional radiology, haematology, paediatric surgery, physiotherapy and social services.

Large congenital melanocytic naevi (LCMN) are associated with an increased risk of malignancy and neurocutaneous melanocytosis (NCM). This Australian study aims to assess both the clinical characteristics of LCMN and the risks associated with it. The authors reviewed medical records of the Sydney Children's Hospital Dermatology Outpatient Clinic for the past 10 years and identified 31 eligible patients. A total of 14 boys and 17 girls with a median age of 0.13 years were assessed; 18 lesions were on the trunk, five were on the head, five were on the lower limbs and three were on the upper limbs. In all 20 patients had satellite naevi (the median number of the satellite naevi was 7.5). The patients were followed up for a median duration of 12 months. Central nervous system magnetic resonance imaging was performed on 19 patients and two (6.5%) were found to have NCM. Biopsies were performed on five patients; one patient (3.2%) was found to have benign proliferative nodules of undifferentiated spindle cells but no patient (0%) was found to have a malignancy. The clinical characteristics for the two patients with NCM and the patient with benign proliferative nodules suggest that the risk of both NCM and benign proliferative nodules may be greater with an increased number of satellite naevi and with the LCMN being larger in size.

The mechanism of action of beta adrenergic blockers in the involution of infantile haemangioma (IH) remains unclear. It has been proposed that the renin-angiotensin pathway may play a role. We present a retrospective case series of 17 patients with IH who were treated with oral corticosteroid therapy and developed hypertension requiring treatment with the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, captopril. All patients, with written documentation, demonstrated an improvement in their lesion at the start of oral corticosteroid therapy (n = 14). Captopril alone did not sustain the corticosteroid-induced involution with a documented worsening of infantile haemangioma in seven out of 12 patients (58%).

Proliferative nodules (PN) are benign lesions that arise in large congenital melanocytic naevi (LCMN). Clinically and histologically they can be difficult to differentiate from malignancies, which are also associated with LCMN. The PN in this case consisted of undifferentiated spindle cells and exhibited unusual histological features including negative stains for melanocytic markers (S100, HMB45 and MelA), negative stain for c-Kit, high mitotic index and unusual morphology of the lesional cells. As a result, a firm histological classification could not be made, which posed a challenge for the clinical management.

Sweet syndrome is an inflammatory disease characterized by fever and painful erythematous plaques with a dermal neutrophilic infiltrate. It is most common in adults, where it is often parainflammatory or paraneoplastic, but is rare in children. We describe 3 cases of neonatal Sweet syndrome, including 1 patient who had myelodysplastic syndrome and immunodeficiency, the first report of a premalignancy underlying infantile Sweet syndrome. We reviewed the literature on patients presenting with neutrophilic dermatosis in the first 6 months of life. Of 20 cases, 6 had a probable viral etiology, 4 primary immunodeficiencies, 3 neonatal lupus syndrome, 1 gastrointestinal involvement, 1 HIV, and 5 probable genetic cases. Three of these had chronic atypical neutrophilic dermatosis with lipodystrophy and elevated temperature syndrome, caused by mutations in the PSMB8 gene. Most children who presented within the first 6 weeks of life had either a serious underlying condition, such as primary immunodeficiency, or a genetic Sweet syndrome, with 2 fatalities among this latter group. The outcome of postinfective cases was good. Extracutaneous involvement was unusual, whereas postinflammatory scarring and cutis laxa occurred in a minority of patients. In conclusion, Sweet syndrome in the neonatal period often heralds a serious underlying disorder and requires thorough investigation.

Juvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG) is one of the most common forms of non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis in children. Although it usually presents as a self-limited skin lesion with typical histopathology, JXG can be challenging to diagnose due to an atypical initial presentation with corresponding variable histopathology for different stages of development. We present challenging cases of JXG from Sydney Children's Hospital, collected over 10 years - two with multisystem involvement and concomitant urticaria, one associated with neurofibromatosis, and one case of giant JXG with an initial histopathological challenge. Although JXG has been reported with urticaria pigmentosa, in two of our cases persistent urticaria, in association with JXG is discussed.

After treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) via nasal masks and a face mask, three neonates developed pressure necrosis involving their central forehead and left eyebrow. The pressure necrosis resulted in permanent scarring in all three infants. We describe a case series of a new cutaneous iatrogenic complication of CPAP.

Lymphatic malformations (LM) are rare vascular malformations.To define the clinical characteristics of children with LM and their management.We performed a retrospective chart review of children with LM and telephone interviews with parents. Demographic and clinical features, diagnostic imaging, treatments and complications were recorded.Thirty male and 34 female patients with LM were identified. The anatomic location of the LM was most frequently the head and neck (48%). LM involved the left side of the body more frequently (62%). Children presented most commonly with swelling as skin coloured tumours or cysts, and less frequently with hemihypertrophy, bruising, and superficial pseudo-vesicles. Most LM were macrocystic (60%), followed by microcystic (24%) and mixed (16%). The mean age at diagnosis was 37 months, with 51% of LM obvious at birth. LM caused morbidity in 70% of cases and death in one child. Treatments were sclerotherapy with sodium tetradecyl sulfate 3% (30.5%), OK-432 (17%) and doxycycline (10%); 27% received surgery; 34 % had no treatment.LM are heterogeneous vascular malformations that may result in significant morbidity. Diagnosis is often delayed. A multidisciplinary approach to management including dermatology, diagnostic and interventional radiology and paediatric surgery is important.

OBJECTIVE: Propranolol hydrochloride is a safe and effective medication for treating infantile hemangiomas (IHs), with decreases in IH volume, color, and elevation. METHODS: Forty children between the ages of 9 weeks and 5 years with facial IHs or IHs in sites with the potential for disfigurement were randomly assigned to receive propranolol or placebo oral solution 2 mg/kg per day divided 3 times daily for 6 months. Baseline electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, and laboratory evaluations were performed. Monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose was performed at each visit. Children younger than 6 months were admitted to the hospital for monitoring after their first dose at weeks 1 and 2. Efficacy was assessed by performing blinded volume measurements at weeks 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 and blinded investigator scoring of photographs at weeks 0, 12, and 24. RESULTS: IH growth stopped by week 4 in the propranolol group. Significant differences in the percent change in volume were seen between groups, with the largest difference at week 12. Significant decrease in IH redness and elevation occurred in the propranolol group at weeks 12 and 24 (P = .01 and .001, respectively). No significant hypoglycemia, hypotension, or bradycardia occurred. One child discontinued the study because of an upper respiratory tract infection. Other adverse events included bronchiolitis, gastroenteritis, streptococcal infection, cool extremities, dental caries, and sleep disturbance. CONCLUSION: Propranolol hydrochloride administered orally at 2 mg/kg per day reduced the volume, color, and elevation of focal and segmental IH in infants younger than 6 months and children up to 5 years of age.

We report three cases of primary osteoma cutis in children, two of whom (siblings) were associated with Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy (AHO), manifesting as short stature with autosomal dominant inheritance from the father, but no dysmorphic features and no parathyroid hormone (PTH) resistance. Osteoma cutis can manifest as an isolated skin disease, a secondary condition to other skin diseases (such as acne), or in association with several syndromes, including AHO, which in turn may be associated with PTH resistance. The management and prognosis of patients diagnosed with osteoma cutis is determined by whether the skin manifestation has occurred in isolation, in association with a syndrome, or as a secondary skin disease. These three paediatric cases highlight the importance of understanding the aetiology and associations of osteoma cutis in order to appropriately investigate and manage patients who present with this rare skin disease.

This study aims to describe the phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of 45 Australian patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), to assess risk factors for intellectual disability, to compare patients with TSC1 and TSC2 mutations and to assess adherence to surveillance recommendations.Phenotypic features were recorded in 45 patients who fulfilled established criteria for a diagnosis of definite TSC. All patients underwent TSC1 and TSC2 sequencing and multiplex ligand probe amplification. Features were compared in patients with TSC1 mutations versus TSC2 mutations. Recent surveillance was recorded at the point of first contact. Surveillance adherence was compared in the adult and paediatric cohorts.This cohort consisted of 31 children and 14 adults with definite TSC. The rates of TSC manifestations and TSC1 and TSC2 mutation detection rates were consistent with previous studies. There was a trend towards greater severity for patients with TSC2 mutations compared with their TSC1 counterparts, particularly for autistic spectrum disorder, but this did not reach statistical significance. The presence of seizures was shown to be a risk factor for intellectual disability (P0.001). Overall, 12/45 patients (27%) were not undergoing recommended surveillance at the point of first contact. Surveillance guidelines were being followed in 3/31 (11%) children compared with 9/14 (64%) adult patients (P0.05).The genotypic and phenotypic characteristics of this TSC cohort were consistent with previous studies. Surveillance rates in adult patients were significantly lower than in paediatric patients. This highlights the need for patients with TSC to undergo a focussed transition into adult services.

Infantile haemangiomas are usually not present at birth. This is a case of a female infant with an atypical congenital vascular tumour present at birth which ulcerated in the first few days of life, involuted over several months and showed histopathological features in keeping with either an involuting GLUT-1 positive infantile haemangioma or a reticular haemangioma of infancy. The initial clinical presentation was atypical for an infantile haemangiomas and for a congenital haemangioma, however the histopathology and immunohistochemistry assisted with confirmation of the diagnosis. Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) therapy aided in the complete healing of the ulcerated infantile haemangioma which was not achievable with conventional dressings.

A 10-year-old boy was diagnosed with non-Herlitz junctional epidermolysis bullosa (nh-JEB) shortly after birth when he developed blisters on his feet and under the toenails. His younger brother was also affected by nh-JEB. Their parents were first cousins. Immunofluorescence mapping showed a blister in the lamina lucida and reduced staining with GB3 antibody against laminin V. Molecular analysis showed a homozygous mutation in the LAMC2 gene. The patient complained of intermittent inability to pass urine, causing significant suprapubic pain, anxiety, and general discomfort. He reported the development of blisters and erosions at the urethral meatus, which caused fusion of the meatal opening. In order to micturate, he had to tear apart the fused tissue, resulting in considerable pain. Physical examination revealed multiple healing erosions and atrophic scars, mainly on the legs (Fig. 1), and anonychia of most of the toenails. The walls of the urethral meatus were adherent (Fig. 2). The urethral meatus could not be opened using a moderate amount of pressure by the examining physicians. Prevention of re-stenosis of the urethral meatus was accomplished with the application of Mepilex (Molnlycke, Sweden) to the urethral meatus after each micturition, where it remained until the next episode of micturition. Since the institution of this care regimen 10 months ago, there has been no recurrence of the stenosis.

Haemangiomas of infancy are the commonest benign tumour in childhood, with the majority being a localized subtype, only requiring therapy in specific locations. The segmental subtype, however, confers a higher complication rate, an association with the PHACE syndrome and poorer prognosis. This retrospective case series of 14 infants with segmental haemangiomas aimed to further define the variety of clinical presentations, complication rates, and response to treatment in this subset of patients. We found in our series that 71% of infants with segmental haemangiomas develop at least one complication related to the lesion. Systemic corticosteroids prevented the further growth as well as reduced the pain and ulceration of the segmental haemangiomas in all of those treated. Early recognition and early treatment to arrest the growth of segmental haemangiomas will reduce morbidity and complications associated with these haemangiomas. Corticosteroid use, however, needs to be considered against the high incidence of side-effects such as secondary hypertension (40%), cushingoid features (40%) and growth suppression (67%). In our experience, these infants benefit from multidisciplinary team involvement for the assessment of associated syndromes, and to follow up and avoid complications associated with systemic therapy.

Summary A 64 year old man with refractory stage II cutaneous T-cell lymphoma was treated with etretinate (RO109359) at 2 mg/kg/day with near clearing of nodules, plaques and pruritus in eight weeks. There were minimal side effects and no flare of his disease in five months on maintenance treatment with etretinate 1 mg/kg/day.

Summary In this study, twenty patients with mild or moderately severe psoriasis were divided into two groups. In one group the combination of PUVA therapy and dithranol cream was compared with PUVA therapy alone. In the other group dithranol 0.2% in Lassar's paste was compared with dithranol cream. On an overall assessment, patients improved after treatment for a period of four weeks. In the group comparing dithranol cream with 0.2% dithranol in Lassar's paste, seven of the eight patients preferred dithranol cream. Both preparations caused staining of the skin and clothes but irritation of the normal skin was more prevalent in those areas treated with dithranol 0.2% in Lassar's paste. The dithranol cream formulation (Di-Cream) was shown to be a stable, effective formulation that was more acceptable to patients than dithranol in Lassar's paste.

Summary Squamous cell carcinomas developed in bilateral pretibial lesions of necrobiosis lipoidica in a 39 year old non-diabetic male. The tumours and areas of necrobiosis were successfully excised and repaired with full thickness skin grafts. Despite the chronic scarring and at times ulcerative nature of necrobiosis lipoidica, complicating squamous cell carcinomas have infrequently been reported.

Summary Eleven patients out of 489 treated with PUVA therapy have developed. skin cancers: all lesions have been on light exposed areas. If these figures we adjusted for years of treatment we can expect one patient to develop skin cancer every 52 PUVA years. This figure includes skin cancers that would have developed without PUVA therapy. All lesions have been small and easily removed and no recurrences, metastases or deaths have occurred. The risk appears to he dose related. The lowering of the total dose can he achieved by changes to the dose schedule, reduction of unnecessary maintenance, added topical psoralens, oral retinoids and protection of non-involved areas. The protection of. sun exposed areas and the exclusion of patients with a history of skin cancer or requiring a high dose to clear or maintain, should all contribute to reducing the above incidence. Cutaneous damage from PUVA therapy is presumably cumulative and the risk of a more malignant form of complication remains.

Leiomyosarcomas of the skin are frequently misdiagnosed clinically. This tumour however, exhibits typical histological and immunohistochemical features. This collection of seven cases of cutaneous leiomyosarcoma on the trunk and limbs of adults with a mean age of 63 years and a range of 49-78 years demonstrates that the clinical diagnosis in each case, from seven different clinicians, did not include the correct diagnosis. In each case, the special immunohistochemical stains were helpful in making the diagnosis with actin and vimentin being positive and S100 and prekeratin stains being negative.