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Survival of children with liver tumours in Europe 1978--1989
T R Möller1, S Garwicz, I Corazziari
1Southern Swedish Regional Tumour Registry, Lund University Hospital, SE-221 85, Lund, Sweden. torgil.moller@cancerepid.lu.se
Insights
Childhood liver tumors are rare, with hepatoblastoma being the most common type. Survival rates for pediatric liver cancer improved over time, though outcomes varied by age and subtype.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Hepatobiliary Medicine
- Cancer Epidemiology
Background:
- Childhood hepatic tumors are infrequent but represent a significant challenge in pediatric oncology.
- The EUROCARE II study provides valuable data on the incidence and outcomes of childhood liver cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence, characteristics, and survival rates of liver tumors in children aged 0-14 years.
- To identify prognostic factors influencing survival in pediatric liver cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 328 pediatric liver tumors diagnosed between 1978-1989 from the EUROCARE II study.
- Inclusion of data from childhood cancer registries in the UK and Germany, contributing a substantial portion of cases.
Main Results:
- Hepatoblastoma comprised 71% of all pediatric liver tumors.
- The overall 5-year survival rate was 36%, with no significant gender disparity.
- Patients aged 10-14 years, particularly boys, had poorer survival outcomes.
- Hepatocellular carcinoma showed a lower 5-year survival of 20% with no improvement over the study period.
- A significant improvement in survival was observed during the study period for pediatric liver tumors.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric liver tumors, predominantly hepatoblastoma, have a concerning but improving survival rate.
- Age and tumor subtype (hepatocellular carcinoma) are critical factors affecting prognosis in children with liver cancer.
- Continued research and improved treatment strategies are essential for enhancing survival in pediatric liver cancer.
Abstract:
Hepatic tumours are rare in childhood. Within the frame of the EUROCARE II study, a total of 328 liver tumours in patients aged 0--14 years were reported during the period 1978--1989. The childhood cancer registries in UK and Germany contributed approximately a third of the cases each. Hepatoblastoma accounted for 71% of cases. The 5-year survival was 36% 95% confidence interval (CI) 28--46%, with no significant difference between the genders. Patients aged 10--14 years did worse, especially boys. Survival improved significantly during the study period. Survival in hepatocellular carcinoma was lower, 20% (95% CI 6--52%), and showed no improvement during the study period.