Effect of continuous positive airway pressure therapy on a large hemangioma complicated with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: a case report.
BACKGROUND
Hemangiomas involving the upper airway can be an uncommon cause of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.


METHODS
A 26-year-old Caucasian man with a known history of a large hemangioma of his head and neck presented with sleep-disordered breathing to the sleep unit of our hospital. Severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome was revealed on polysomnography. Nasal continuous positive airway pressure was implemented effectively, reducing daytime hypersomnolence and significantly improving sleep parameters. After three years of adherent use, the patient remains in a good condition and the hemangioma is stable.


CONCLUSIONS
Application of continuous positive airway pressure can be an effective treatment for patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome complicated with vascular tumors. Periodic follow-up of these patients is necessary, as little is known about the long-term effects of continuous positive airway pressure therapy.
Antoniadou
Maria
M
Sleep Unit, 2nd Chest Department, General Hospital "G, Papanikolaou", Exohi 57010, Thessaloniki, Greece. steiropoulos@yahoo.com.
Steiropoulos
Paschalis
P
Serasli
Evangelia
E
Tsara
Venetia
V