P03 Utility of the infantile haemangioma referral score in optimizing referrals to a specialist centre.

The Infantile Haemangioma Referral Score (IHReS) is a validated, decision-making tool designed to aid physicians in appropriate and timely referral of patients with infantile haemangiomas (IH) to specialist centres. Previous studies have assessed its usefulness in identifying patients who require referral; however, none have analysed its utility in identifying those who do not. We sought to assess the use of the IHReS score by GPs and paediatricians and to correlate the patients' score with outcomes through retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of all new IH referrals to a dedicated IH clinic over 6 months. The IHReS was retrospectively applied using information from referral letters and dermatology clinic letters. Data on demographics, wait time and outcomes were analysed. Forty-four patients were identified (females, n = 23; males, n = 21). The mean age at referral was 30 (SD 48) weeks. Only three (7%) referrals had recorded the patient's IHReS. Overall, 17 (39%) patients did not satisfy criteria for referral when the IHReS was applied retrospectively. Of these, 10 (59%) were discharged on the first visit, 6 (35%) were offered follow-up and one did not attend. No patients in this group received propranolol. Of the 27 (61%) patients who met the IHReS criteria 12 (44%) required propranolol, 11 (41%) were monitored for potential treatment, and 4 (15%) were discharged. The IHReS is a useful tool for identifying patients with IH who do not require referral to a specialist centre. It is underutilized by GPs and paediatricians and its use could reduce the number of inappropriate referrals to dermatology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]