From the Guidelines
Mucosal ulcerations in a 3-year-old are painful sores that can be caused by infantile hemangioma (IH) and require prompt management to prevent complications and promote healing. According to a study published in Pediatrics in 2015 1, pain control is a significant issue in infants with ulcerated IH, and oral acetaminophen and cautious use of topical 2.5% lidocaine ointment may be effective in managing the pain of ulceration.
Two important actions to take include:
- Providing pain relief with oral acetaminophen and topical lidocaine ointment, as recommended by the study 1
- Using therapies to curb the growth of the IH, such as propranolol therapy, which has been reported to be successful in treating IH ulceration 1
Two critical parameters to monitor are:
- Pain control, as inadequate pain control can disrupt sleep and interfere with daily activities and/or function 1
- Response to treatment, as therapies such as propranolol or pulsed-dye laser therapy may be effective in managing ulcerated IHs, but require careful monitoring to avoid complications such as atrophic scarring or ulceration 1
From the Research
Mucosal Ulcerations in a 3-Year-Old
Mucosal ulcerations in children are common and can be caused by various factors, including infections, trauma, and systemic diseases 2, 3. In a 3-year-old, these ulcerations can be painful and affect eating, speaking, and swallowing.
Actions to Take
- Consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive physical examination and detailed medical history to determine the cause of the ulcerations 2, 4.
- Consider seeking multidisciplinary consultation if the diagnosis is unclear or if the child has recurrent or severe ulcerations 2, 5.
Parameters to Watch
- The child's overall health and presence of any systemic symptoms, such as fever or arthritis, which could indicate an underlying systemic disease 3, 4.
- The size, quantity, and recurrence of the ulcerations, as well as any changes in the child's behavior or appetite, which could indicate the severity of the condition 2, 5.