Clinical trial of 5% imiquimod cream for eleven cases of infantile hemangioma

Background: Infantile hemangioma is a common benign tumor with preponderance in females. Even though most of them have self-limiting course after growing phase, many parents seek more effective and less aggressive therapy. Motivated by a report on the experience of successful treatment with imiquimod, we planned to confirm the beneficial effect of imiquimod on the regression of infantile hemangioma. Objective: To enhance the noninvasive treatment modality of infantile hemangioma. Methods: Eleven patients with various ages were enrolled in this study. Eight female and three male patients applied 5% imiquimod cream every other day or daily. Results: There was no statistically significant difference of treatment results between both sexes. The number of lesions and locations didn't alter the outcome. But, the growing phase versus regression phase affected the response to treatment significantly after two months of application. As a whole, most of the patients tolerated the imiquimod well. Three of them experienced mild scales and erosions. One showed shallow ulcers and crusts that needed medical treatments. But, by reducing the frequency of application and some dressings, all the complications were managed well and didn't hinder the therapy. There were no significant systemic adverse effects. Conclusion: Imiquimod is effective for infantile hemangioma regardless of site of occurrence, especially when used early in growing phase. It is noninvasive and relatively safe method. For a beneficial effect, the therapy must be continued for at least two months.