Preterm neonate with a large congenital hemangioma on maxillofacial site causing thrombocytopenia and heart failure: A case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND

We report a rare case of a large congenital hemangioma (CH) in the maxillofacial region in a female neonate that caused thrombocytopenia and heart failure. With close multidisciplinary collaboration, the congenital hemangioma was successfully resected with good results.

CASE SUMMARY

The patient was delivered at gestational age of 36 wk by cesarean section due to cephalopelvic disproportion and lack of onset of labor (birth weight: 2630 g). A right-sided facial tumor was detected in the fetus during routine antenatal ultrasound examination of the mother at 32 wk of gestation. Physical examination revealed a 7 cm × 7 cm × 3 cm hard, dull purple-colored mass on the right maxillofacial region. The mass was tense and had prominent surface telangiectasias. Laboratory investigations revealed reduced hemoglobin and platelet count, and increased activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, and thrombin time. International normalized ratio, fibrin degradation products, and D-Dimer levels were significantly increased. Thromboelastography showed increased alpha angle, mean amplitude, and the clot formation speed. Thyroid-stimulating hormone level was significantly elevated. The patient was administered prednisone, propranolol, euthyrox, vitamin K1, milrinone, and digoxin. After operation, cefepime was administered for anti-infection and propranolol was prescribed at discharge.

CONCLUSION

We report a rare case of CH in the right maxillofacial region causing thrombocytopenia and heart failure.

Key Words: Congenital hemangioma; Maxillofacial site; Thrombocytopenia; Heart failure; Case report

Core Tip: The present report highlights the management strategy for congenital hemangiomas, i.e., protection of hemangioma before surgical resection, appropriate use of propranolol to contain the size and tension of the hemangioma, correction of anemia and thrombocytopenia, and improvement of congestive heart failure. Multidisciplinary collaboration is vital to achieve good outcomes.

INTRODUCTION

Hemangiomas occurring in the neonatal period are typically benign and the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms are not well characterized[1]. Congenital hemangiomas (CHs) are uncommon entities[2] accounting for < 3% of all hemangiomas. CHs have a predilection for occurring in the cranio-maxillo-facial region and lower limbs, while suboccipital neck, elbow, and knees are the other reported sites of occurrence[3]. CH typically present within the first month of life, and exhibit an accelerated growth phase followed by involution[1]. CHs develop in utero, are fully grown at birth, and do not show continual growth after birth[1]. Thrombocytopenia, coagulation dysfunction, heart failure, and hemorrhage are some of the complications of CH[4]. According to the 2019 guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of hemangiomas and vascular malformations, CHs are classified into three types: Rapidly involuting CH (RICH), noninvoluting CH (NICH), and partially involuting CH (PICH)[5,6]. NICH is rarer than RICH. Surgery is often required for NICH as conservative treatment may not yield a satisfactory outcome[3]. In this work, we report a rare case of CH in the right maxillofacial region causing thrombocytopenia and heart failure. With close multidisciplinary collaboration, the CH was successfully resected with good results.

CASE PRESENTATION

Chief complaints

A female neonate was brought to the Department of Neonatology at our hospital immediately after birth with the chief complaint of a facial tumor.

History of present illness

The gestational age of the fetus at the time of delivery was 36 wk and the mother of the patient had a cesarean scar pregnancy. The patient was delivered by cesarean section due to cephalopelvic disproportion and noninitiation of labor. Apgar scores at 1 min and 5 min were 9 and 10, respectively. The birthweight was 2630 g. Routine antenatal imaging examination performed at the gestational age of 32 wk revealed a maxillofacial tumor on the right side; the cardiothoracic area ratio of the fetus was 0.39; the superior vena cava was dilated with tricuspid regurgitation; and umbilical artery pulsatility index was 1.25. At the time of admission to our department, the neonate had not been breastfed, and had not passed meconium or urine after birth.

History of past illness

The past medical history of the mother was unremarkable.

Personal and family history

There was no significant family history.

Physical examination

At admission, the general state of the neonate was poor with skin cyanosis. The anterior fontanelle was flat (approximately 2.5 cm × 2.5 cm) with no tension. Physical examination revealed a 7 cm × 7 cm × 3 cm hard, tense, dull purple-colored mass at the right maxillofacial region with prominent surface telangiectasias (Figure 1A-C). The mass was warm to the touch and had a palpable thrill. The boundary of the mass was well defined and the color did not fade on application of pressure. The respiratory rate was 40 breaths/min, and the three concave sign was negative. On chest auscultation, the breath sounds were harsh with no rales or rhonchi. Apical impulse was not palpable over the precordial region. The heart rate was 149 beats/min and there were no murmurs. Abdominal wall was soft with no peristaltic wave. There was no splenomegaly or hepatomegaly and the bowel sounds were decreased. Hypomyotonia was found in four extremities, and the primitive reflexes were attenuated. The estimated gestation age was 36 wk.

Figure 1 The large hemangioma (7 cm × 7 cm × 3 cm) on the right maxillofacial region and after removal of tumor. A: Seen from the top of the tumor; B: Seen from the right shoulder; C: Seen from the front of the tumor; D: After the tumor was removed.

Laboratory examinations

Blood parameters at admission were as follows: Hemoglobin (Hb) 120 g/L (normal range 170-210 g/L); platelet count (PLT) 34 × 10⁹/L (normal range 220× 10⁹-360 × 10⁹/L); prothrombin time (PT) 17.0 s (normal range 10.1-15.9 s); thrombin time (TT) 24 s (normal range 11-17 s); fibrin degradation products (FDPs) 66.5 μg/mL (normal range 0.0-5.0 μg/mL); international normalized ratio (INR) 1.48 (normal range 0.8-1.2); D-Dimer 29.74 μg/mL (normal range 0-1 μg/mL); andthyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) 17.7 mIU/L (normal range 0.72-13.10 mIU/L). Thromboelastography findings were as follows: Alpha angle 37.2 (normal range 53–72); the clot formation speed (K) 6.5 min (normal range 1.0-3.0 min); and maximum amplitude (MA) 35.5 mm (normal range 50-70 mm). The above results showed decreased levels of Hb and PLT and increased levels of PT and TT beyond the normal range. In addition, there was significant increase in INR, FDP, and D-Dimer levels. Alpha angle, MA, and K were also elevated above the normal range. TSH level was significantly increased. On the second day of admission, the total bilirubin levels were increased beyond the normal range, mainly indirect bilirubin.

Imaging examinations

Tumor mass ultrasound showed a huge cystic-solid mixed echo mass on the right maxillofacial region and the right neck subcutaneously. The size of the lesion was approximately 7.1 cm × 5.3 cm × 3.1 cm. The interior of the mass was filled with dense point-like low echo, and abundant blood flow signals were visible inside and around the lesion. There was no obvious abnormality in thyroid ultrasonography.

Cardiac ultrasound showed an echo separation at the oval fossa of the atrial septum approximately 2.4 mm; tricuspid regurgitation signal was detected, the area was approximately 0.9 cm², the maximum reflux velocity was 389 cm/s, pressure gradient (Pg) was 61 mmHg, and the estimated pulmonary artery pressure was 71 mmHg. The findings suggested patent foramen ovale, which needed to be differentiated from atrial septal defect, large tricuspid regurgitation, and pulmonary hypertension (severe). X-ray film indicated that the cardiac shape was full and the cardiothoracic area ratio was 0.52.

FINAL DIAGNOSIS

The patient was diagnosed with CH, prematurity, anemia, thrombocytopenia, abnormal coagulation function, atrial septal defect, pulmonary hypertension, hypothyroidism, neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, and congestive heart failure.

TREATMENT

Management of the tumor on the maxillofacial region

The temperature of the tumor was monitored and compared with that of the surrounding skin. If a temperature difference was identified, the attending physician would be informed of the situation. The position of the patient was changed every 2 h. The tumor was thoroughly examined and the presence of redness, swelling, or corrosion was evaluated; the intensity of the fluctuation of the tumor surface was carefully palpated. Since the tumor was large and close to the neck, and the neck of the newborn is short, the tumor and the neck of the patient were separated by oil gauze or silver sulfadiazine dressing. Oil gauze or silver sulfadiazine was placed over the skin around the tumor, and sterile gauze was placed on the side of the intact skin.

The bed sheets that were in contact with the skin of the patient were replaced once a day.

Specific treatment

Owing to the detection of anemia, thrombocytopenia, and abnormal coagulation function, 40 mL cell suspension was administered within 4 h, 40 mL platelet was administered within 1 h, and 40 mL plasma was administered within 4 h. Besides, oral prednisone was administered (4 mg/kg/d, divided into two equal doses) and the intended use was for 6 wk; propranolol was also administered (2 mg/kg/d, divided into two equal doses) and was adjusted based on the changes of CH. Levothyroxine was administered (7 μg/kg/d, once a day) and the dose was adjusted based on the level of TSH. Vitamin K1 was administered at 1 mg/time. Milrinone was administered via intravenous infusion (0.5 μg/kg/min for 24 h). In addition, the tumor was closely monitored for any change in the tension in order to avoid rupture.

Repeat blood tests performed on day 2 of admission showed no increase in PLT; thus, 40 mL platelet and 40 mL plasma were administered along with vitamin K1, 1 mg STAT. At the same time, phototherapy (intermittent blue light radiation) was administered to reduce jaundice.

On day 3 of admission, PLT had further decreased, and 40 mL platelets was administered within 1 h.

On day 7 of admission, the patient developed shortness of breath and hypouresis. Physical examination revealed increased heart rate and bilateral pitting edema in the lower extremity; in addition, liver was palpable approximately 4 cm below the rib. Therefore, digoxin (0.01 mg/kg/d, divided into two equal doses), milrinone (0.5 μg/kg/min for 24 h), and furosemide (0.5 mg/kg/time, once or twice a day) were administered.

On day 14 of admission, the patient showed stable breathing, normal volume of urine, heart rate within normal range, and no lower extremity edema; thus, digoxin and milrinone were withdrawn.

On day 29 of admission, Hb level was 95 g/L and PLT was 19 × 10⁹/L; therefore, 60 mL platelets was administered within 1 h, and 45 mL red blood cell suspension was administered within 4 h.

On day 34 of admission, there was no further decrease in PLT, and the brain natriuretic peptide level was improved. TSH level was further decreased, but still higher than the normal range. Echocardiography displayed left heart enlargement, mild tricuspid insufficiency, and patent foramen ovale. Cardiac function was within the lower limit of normal range. An operation was scheduled for the next day.

On day 35 of admission, the parents of the patient consented for surgical resection of the tumor. The patient was placed in the supine position. After tracheal intubation, a pillow was placed under the shoulders and the right side of the face and neck were disinfected with strong iodine and a surgical drape was placed. A giant purple–red hemangioma was seen on the right side of the face, approximately 8 cm in diameter. The skin surrounding the hemangioma showed tortuous blood vessels. There was local surface rupture and slight visible oozing. An incision was made at 2 cm from the lower margin of the tumor. There was ejection of dark red blood and a compress was used to stop bleeding. The tumor was separated along its lower margin, dissociated from the right facial artery and vein (the main blood supply vessel), ligated and disconnected. A subcutaneous incision was made 2 cm away from the edge of the tumor and the tumor was quickly removed. The bleeding was fully stopped after washing the operating cavity. The area was scraped and trimmed of facial skin and a Y-shaped suture was done. The subcutaneous tissue and skin were sutured layer by layer. A drainage tube was placed and pressure bandages were applied. The volume of intraoperative bleeding was approximately 350 mL, and 360 mL blood was transfused. The patient was safely returned to the ward after the operation. Respiratory support was provided, along with transfusion of red blood cell suspension, platelets, cold precipitation, and plasma to prevent infection. Symptomatic treatment was administered as necessary.

On postoperative day 1, the patient presented with coarse breath sounds and bubbling sounds in both lungs, along with worsening of lower extremity edema. Therefore, fluid intake was restricted; plus human hemoglobin was administered at 5 mL/kg once; furosemide 0.5 mg/kg/time, twice; and cefepime 30 mg/kg/time, Q12H. In addition: (1) The patient was closely monitored for blood oozing from the surgical wound and signs of impaired circulation at the surrounding skin site of the compression bandage; the color and volume of the drainage fluid was also monitored; (2) the dressing was changed every day and a compression bandage was applied; and (3) 12 d after the operation, the surgical sutures were intermittently removed and 16 d after the operation, the surgical sutures were completely removed. The wound had recovered (Figure 1D).

On day 44 of admission, C-reactive protein levels were within the normal range, and cefepime was withdrawn. On day 51 of admission, the laboratory indices were within the normal range; the patient had recovered and was discharged. The following treatment was prescribed at discharge: (1) Propranolol was divided into two equal doses (1.5 mg/kg/d); (2) regular monitoring of biochemical parameters, serum blood glucose levels, myocardial enzymes levels, electrocardiogram, and echocardiography; and (3) withdrawal of drugs: When the clinical evidence showed that the tumor disappeared and local B ultrasound showed tumor regression and no blood supply, gradual drug withdrawal to complete withdrawal can be considered within 1 mo (Table 1).

Table 1 Timelines for the findings and treatment.

Timeline	Findings	Treatment
Day 1: Admission	(1) A 7.1 cm × 5.3 cm × 3.1 cm tumor was located at the right maxillofacial region; (2) the laboratory test revealed that the level of Hb and PLT was reduced, the APPT, PT, and TT were extended and INR, FDP, and D-Dimer were increased; alpha angle, MA, and K were elevated. TSH level was significantly elevated; and (3) atrial septal defect, pulmonary hypertension (severe)	(1) Appropriate limit the intake of fluid to reduce the preload of heart; (2) stepwise infusion of 40 mL cells suspension (4 h); platelet infusion of 40 mL (1 h); plasma infusion of 40 mL (4 h); prednisone tablets (4 mg/kg/d, evenly divided two times daily); intended use for 6 wk; propranolol (2mg/kg/d, evenly divided two times daily); levothyroxine (7 μg/kg/d, once a day); the dose was adjusted based on the level of TSH; vitamin K1 (1 mg/time); milrinone (0.5 μg/kg/min for 24 h); and (3) protect the tumor by paying attention to the tension change, avoiding rupture bleeding
Day 2: Continuing attempt to elevate the platelet level	(1) The laboratory test showed that the level of Hb and PLT was not significantly increased, and the level of PT and TT was not improved; however, the level of FDR and D-Dimer were increased; alpha angle, MA, and K were elevated; and (2) total bilirubin level was increased (mainly indirect bilirubin)	Additional diagnosis: Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia; platelet infusion of 40 mL (1 h); plasma infusion of 40m L (4 h); vitamin K1 (1 mg/time); blue light irradiation
Day 3: Further workup	(1) Neck enhanced CT suggested that it was a subcutaneous tumor in right maxillofacial region, tortuous and thickened vascular shadow of right neck, considered as round vascular lesion, atypical hemangioma; (2) PLT continually decreased compared with previous day; we attributed the decrease to the consumption by the hemangioma; and (3) there was no change for TT, and FDP and D-Dimer were still higher	Platelet infusion of 40 mL (1 h)
Day 4: Blood test	PLT was slightly increased; MA was significantly decreased	No adjustment of therapy strategy
Day 7: Blood test and echocardiography	(1) PLT level was still low, however, not worsened; (2) BNP was increased; (3) bilirubin was slightly decreased; and (4) symmetrical lower extremity edema; the major pulmonary artery diameter was about 10 mm, the size of the right atrium was about 21 mm × 21 mm, the heart was enlarged, mainly the right heart. The echo separation at the oval fossa was 2.0 mm; atrial level left to right shunt, tricuspid regurgitation signal, area of 0.5 cm2, the maximum reflux velocity of 395 cm/s, Pg 62 mmHg, which suggests of the whole heart enlargement (right heart), patent foramen ovale, moderate tricuspid incompetence, and pulmonary hypertension (moderate to severe)	(1) Additional diagnosis: congestive heart failure; and (2) digoxin (0.01 mg/kg/d, evenly divided two times daily); milrinone (0.5 μg/kg/min for 24 h); furosemide (0.5 mg/kg/time, one or twice a day)
Day 10: Blood test and physical examination	PLT was in normal range; BNP was further decreased; low extremity edema improved	Continued previous treatment
Day 14: Blood test and echocardiography	(1) PLT was not further decreased; (2) BNP was further decreased, but still higher than normal; (3) TSH fell into the normal range; (4) measurement showed the tumor was 7 cm × 6.5 cm × 3 cm; and (5) echocardiography showed that the left heart was full; the tricuspid regurgitation signal was detected with area of 0.5 cm2, the maximum reflux velocity of 301 cm/s, Pg 36 mmHg, pulmonary artery pressure 41 mmHg, which suggests patent foramen ovale, moderate tricuspid incompetence, and pulmonary hypertension (mild)	Withdrawal of digoxin and milrinone
Day 21: Blood test	(1) PLT was increased, though not as high as normal; (2) BNP was not in normal range; and (3) echocardiography: Left heart was enlarged, mild tricuspid insufficiency and patent foramen ovale were identified	No adjustment of treatment strategy
Day 25: Blood test	There was fluctuation of Hb and PLT	No adjustment of treatment strategy
Day 29: Blood test	(1) The level of Hb and PLT was still decreased; and (2) echocardiography: left heart was enlarged, mild tricuspid insufficiency, patent foramen ovale, cardiac function was within the lower limit of normal function	(1) Platelet infusion of 60 mL (1 h); red cell suspension infusion of 45 mL (4 h); and (2) pay attention to anemia and bleeding
Day 30: Blood test	The level of Hb was in normal range; PLT was increased	Continue current treatment
Day 34: Blood test and measurement of the tumor	(1) PLT was not further decreased; (2) BNP was improved; (3) TSH was further decreased, but still higher than normal; (4) echocardiography: Left heart was enlarged, mild tricuspid insufficiency and patent foramen ovale were identified, cardiac function was within lower limit of normal range; and (5) size of tumor was 6.5 cm × 6 cm × 3 cm	Surgical resection scheduled for next day
Day 35: Operation	-	(1) Volume of bleeding was about 350 mL, blood transfusion was about 360 mL; (2) the patient was safely returned to the ward after the operation; respiratory support was offered, transfusion of red blood cell suspension, platelets, cold precipitation, plasma was performed to prevent infection; and (3) symptomatic treatment was conducted when necessary
Day 36: Blood test, pathological examination and determination of myocardial enzymes	(1) Hb returned to normal and PLT was increased; (2) CRP increased; and (3) pathological examination showed that it was CH with massive hemorrhage; local extramedullary hematopoietic and fibrous tissue hyperplasia were seen	(1) Limited intake of liquid with precondition of maintaining normal circulation; (2) human serum albumin: 5 mL/kg/time, once; furosemide: 0.5 mg/kg/time, twice; record of intake and output of the patient; cefepime: 30mg/kg/time, Q12H; and (3) compression bandage and care for surgical wound and disinfection
Day 40: Blood test	BNP and TSH returned to normal	No adjustment of treatment strategy
Day 44: Blood test	Monitor PLT, and CRP; indicators of liver function and myocardial enzymes stayed in the normal range	Cefepime was withdrawn
Day 51: Blood test and echocardiography	PLT, indicators of coagulation function, BNP, FT3, FT4 and TSH were in normal range	The patient was discharged

Hb: Hemoglobin; PLT: Platelet count; Pg: Pressure gradient; APPT: Activated thromboplastin time; PT: Prothrombin time; MA: Maximum amplitude; TT: Thrombin time; INR: International normalized ratio; FDP: Fibrin degradation product; TSH: Thyroid-stimulating hormone; K: The clot formation speed; CT: Computed tomography; BNP: Brain natriuretic peptide; CRP: C-reactive protein; FT3: Free triiodothyronine.

OUTCOME AND FOLLOW-UP

At 4 mo of follow-up, the patient showed good prognosis. There were no adverse drug effects and no signs of recurrence after drug withdrawal. The patient showed quick recovery and her growth and development were within the normal range.

DISCUSSION

CH is rarely encountered in clinical practice. Correct diagnosis requires detailed obstetric history and antenatal color Doppler ultrasound. The intrauterine growth of the tumor should be monitored. A key characteristic of CH is that the tumor grows in utero, and the growth is completed after birth, which is different from common hemangiomas. It is possible to determine the blood flow and blood supply in the tumor by combining imaging with ultrasound findings. CHs need to be differentiated from teratomas, granulomas, and Kaposi-like hemangioendothelioma.

According to the 2020 diagnosis and treatment advances of CH, NICH presents as a mass with prominent round-to-ovoid shape, in variable shades of pink to purple. The lesions are well delineated and show prominent telangiectasias and central and peripheral pallor[1]. The lesions are warm on palpation[4]. The clinical findings of our patient are similar to those of NICH. It is important to differentiate NICH from early RICH since the treatment focus for these two hemangiomas is different. RICH is frequently treated by conservative treatment with a good prognosis (almost 100% cure)[7]. RICH can also be treated by surgical resection if the patient develops complications such as thrombocytopenia, coagulation disfunction, or heart failure[8].

It is reported that NICH can be treated with propranolol alone with no significant side effects[2]; however, conservative treatment did not work for our patient[1].

The patient was diagnosed with CH accompanied with thrombocytopenia and coagulation dysfunction. Considering the large size of the tumor and presence of aberrant vessels inside the tumor, there was a risk of intravascular coagulation or local microthrombosis. Platelets were consumed after the formation of thrombus, resulting in abnormal coagulation function[4]. In this setting, the conventional treatment strategy for thrombocytopenia cannot be followed. There is a need to treat the primary disease and monitor concurrent hemorrhagic diseases[8,9].

Congestive heart failure resulted from the changes in intratumoral hemodynamics and high-output heart failure was caused by an arteriovenous shunt and excessive cardiac load. Cardiac failure can occur in infants with hemangiomas > 7 cm[4,10]. Our case confirms this point. In patients with congestive heart failure, due attention should be paid to fluid management. Our patient falls into the NICH type of CH. Conservative treatment did not work in our patient and she developed heart failure; therefore, we decided to perform surgical resection. The postoperative clinical course and echocardiography findings indicated good results. Before surgical resection, we had considered topical application of ethanol to induce necrosis of local vessels in order to reduce local blood supply and cause tumor shrinkage; this would also have reduced the blood loss during surgical resection. However, local application of ethanol may cause severe side effects in neonates. There are no available reports on the application of local ethanol for the reduction of hemangioma and its effectiveness needs further data.

Close multidisciplinary collaboration was instrumental in the successful surgical resection of the large hemangioma in this patient. There was sizable intraoperative blood loss given the small blood volume of preterm neonates. Supplementing the neonate with blood products does not correct the hypovolemia; on the contrary, it is likely to cause cardiac dysfunction or renal dysfunction. Therefore, it is important for the surgeon to identify the major blood vessels after the surgeon opens the skin, in order to maintain the vitals and remove the tumor as quickly as possible. Close collaboration among experienced head and neck surgeons, experienced nurses from the Department of Neonatology, and an expert anesthesiologist can help prevent complications such as hypovolemic shock, acute renal damage or failure, and/or cerebral hypoperfusion.

CONCLUSION

CHs are significantly different from typical hemangiomas in terms of the clinical manifestations, staging, pathology, and imaging findings. CHs are of different types, NICH, RICH, and PICH. The treatment strategies, incidence of complications, and long-term prognosis are also different. Therefore, it is crucial to determine the type of CH based on the clinical characteristics, color Doppler ultrasonography, and imaging. The treatment strategy should be guided by the specific type. Common complications of CH include intralesional hemorrhage, thrombocytopenia, abnormal coagulation function, and congestive heart failure. In our patient, we focused on limiting the liquid intake, inhibiting further growth of the hemangioma, alleviating the congestive heart failure, improving heart function, supplementing Hb, preventing bleeding, and selecting the timing for the surgery. Furthermore, close multidisciplinary collaboration, meticulous care of the tumor, surgical planning, and postoperative care were instrumental in averting postoperative complications.