Elise's story
Elise was born 25th February 2012. She was 4 weeks early
(induced labour) and weighed 5lbs 2 oz. We were discharged the next
day but readmitted when she was 5 days old due to severe jaundice
and suspected septicaemia. She was given phototherapy and
antibiotics. At this point there was no sign of a
birthmark.
Back at home a week later, we noticed a small red mark on her
head. We didn't think much of it but over the next week it seemed
to swell. As she was still under paediatric care, I mentioned it at
her next appointment. The doctor didn't seem concerned and said
maybe she was turning into a unicorn! She asked another doctor for
their opinion, they confirmed it was an haemangioma. He said not to
worry unless it doubled in size within a week.
It did. We were having regular appointments for Elise's other
health issues (prolonged jaundice, craniosynostosis and low
white/deformed blood cells) so we didn't have to wait for a
referral. As it was in her soft spot and doctors became concerned
it was either on or putting pressure on her brain. They then
referred us for a scan. I was told there was a 6 week wait. I
called up to make the appointment and said I could be there within
minutes if anyone made a cancellation. The receptionist was very
understanding (at me being an hysterical first time mum) and
managed to fit us in that day.
She had an ultrasound as they felt that would be adequate due to
its location. Fortunately it was only in the outer layers of skin
and not affecting her brain. It continued to grow but
paediatrics were reluctant to treat it. I made an appointment with
dermatology via my G.P. I had read about Timolol (topical beta
blocker) and wanted to request it as treatment. I was worried about
her knocking it when she became mobile. We went to the
dermatologist (One hospital worker tried to direct us to A&E
when they saw her head) and we left with a prescription for
Timolol.
Within one week it had shrunk from 3cms high to just
1cm. It was over 4cms in diameter and it shrunk to 3cms. It
continued to shrink over the next few months. There were no
apparent side effects.
Elise is now 8 months and no longer on Timolol. She has a very
slight 'bump' left along with the strawberry nevus, which continues
to fade on its own.
The first few months of her life were a constant worry, it
seemed to be one thing after another but worst of all was the
stares and comments. People would constantly ask if we'd dropped
her (including a doctor, 2 health visitors and a police officer!)
People also thought we'd left her in the sun due to her prolonged
jaundice. There's nothing like being asked if you've dropped your
sunburnt baby on their head!
Elise has remained happy throughout and no longer has any health
issues. She's our beautiful bundle of joy. It was such a
relief to find the Birthmark Support Group and talk to others in a
similar situation. Hopefully sharing her story will raise awareness
and help others.