Introduction

Infantile haemangiomas (IHs) are common benign vascular tumours of infancy, most of which do not require treatment. Complications for which treatment is indicated include impairment of vital function by ocular or airway involvement, potential to cause significant disfigurement, and ulceration. Case reports, case series and anecdotal experience since 2008 have established that propranolol is a rapidly effective and generally well-tolerated treatment for IHs in comparison with previously available therapies such as corticosteroids, vincristine and interferon.1–4 Recently published recommendations provide a provisional set of best practices meant to standardise the approach to the use of propranolol for IHs (see box 1).