Localization and age distribution of telangiectases in children and adolescents with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia: A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND

The location of telangiectases in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), as set forth in the consensus diagnostic (Curaçao) criteria, is based primarily on adults.

OBJECTIVE

Document the locations and numbers of telangiectases in a cohort of pediatric patients with HHT.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review using a standardized data collection form for site and number of telangiectases was performed for pediatric patients with HHT (age, 0-18 years) from 2005 to 2016.

RESULTS

Of 90 pediatric patients with HHT, 71% had one or more telangiectases. Of all the telangiectases counted (N = 319), cutaneous telangiectases were more common (73%) than oral telangiectases (27%). The hands were the most frequent site, accounting for 33% of all telangiectases. Adolescents were more likely than children to have cutaneous telangiectases (85% vs 50% [Q = 0.005]). The most frequent sites in children younger than 10 years were the hands excluding the fingers (27%), fingers (25%), and face (23%). Only 23% of subjects (21 of 90) presented with multiple (≥3) telangiectases at locations considered characteristic for the current consensus diagnosis guidelines (lips, oral cavity, and fingers).

LIMITATIONS: Ascertainment bias based on recruitment.

CONCLUSIONS

In this pediatric population, telangiectases at sites not included as "characteristic" by the Curaçao diagnostic criteria were common. The Curaçao criteria in regard to both number and location of telangiectases may be inadequate in the pediatric HHT population.