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[Experience with brain tumors in children]
H Bavilski1, M Weil-Ben-Arush, A Kuten
1Pediatric Oncology Unit, Northern Israel Oncology Center, Haifa.
Insights
This retrospective study analyzed 74 pediatric brain tumor cases treated between 1971-1988. The findings indicate a 69% 5-year survival rate with minimal side effects, offering valuable insights into long-term outcomes for childhood brain tumors.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Neuro-oncology
- Clinical Retrospective Studies
Context:
- Analysis of a cohort of 74 children diagnosed with brain tumors between 1971 and 1988.
- Review of treatment modalities including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.
- Evaluation of tumor origin and histological data.
Purpose:
- To retrospectively analyze treatment outcomes and survival rates for pediatric brain tumors over an 18-year period.
- To assess the efficacy and side effect profile of various treatment strategies in children.
- To provide data on the distribution of brain tumor types in a pediatric population.
Summary:
- The study included 74 children with a mean age of 8.1 years, with tumors located in cerebral hemispheres (50%), cerebellum (37%), brain stem (8%), and thalamus (5%).
- Histological data was available for 72% of patients. Treatment involved surgery (84%), radiotherapy (85%), and chemotherapy (19%).
- The overall actuarial 5-year survival rate was 69%, with a notable observation of few treatment-related side effects.
Impact:
- Provides historical data on pediatric brain tumor treatment and survival from a specific era.
- Highlights the effectiveness of combined treatment modalities in achieving long-term survival.
- Informs current understanding of outcomes and potential long-term sequelae in pediatric neuro-oncology.
- Contributes to the evidence base for managing childhood brain tumors.
Abstract:
A series of 74 children with brain tumors treated between 1971-1988 was analyzed retrospectively. The mean age was 8.1 +/- 4.0 years; the m/f ratio was 1.4. In 37 (50%) the tumor originated in a cerebral hemisphere, in 27 (37%) in the cerebellum, in 6 (8%) in the brain stem, and in 4 (5%) in the thalamus. Histological material was obtained in 53 patients (72%). 62 (84%) were treated surgically, 63 (85%) received radiotherapy and 14 (19%) chemotherapy. The actuarial 5-year survival of the whole group was 69%. There were few side effects.