Haemangioma of the vallecula causing acute upper airway obstruction in a 6 1/2 week old Nigerian infant with strawberry naevus.

Expectant management remains the treatment of choice in isolated capillary haemangiomata, but active intervention is indicated when they constitute a threat to vital functions. We report a 6 1/2 week old Nigerian infant with acute stridor and unilateral haemangiomata involving the parieto-temporal scalp, forehead and periorbital skin. Direct laryngoscopy showed an ipsilateral haemangioma of the vallecula and adjoining structures. Extensive periorbital lesions suggested a risk of subsequent occlusive amblyopia. Systemic corticosteroids were initiated with good response. The possible diagnostic considerations and therapeutic options are discussed. When active management is indicated for infantile capillary haemangiomata in resource-poor countries, we emphasise the wisdom of a supervised short course of systemic steroids.