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Intracranial tumors in infants
Helen K Young1, Heather Johnston
1Neurology Department, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia. heleny2@chw.edu.au
Journal of Child Neurology
|September 28, 2004
Summary
Survival rates for infants with brain tumors have improved, reaching 81% at 5 years. However, significant neurocognitive morbidity persists in survivors, highlighting the need for comprehensive outcome assessments.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Neuro-oncology
- Clinical Pediatrics
Background:
- Infant brain tumors historically have a poor prognosis.
- Advancements in diagnostic and treatment modalities may impact outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of brain tumors in infants.
- To assess the impact of newer modalities on survival and neurocognitive outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 16 infants (<12 months) with brain tumors (1988-1999).
- Analysis of age at diagnosis, time to diagnosis, presenting features, tumor histology, location, treatment, survival, and neurocognitive outcome.
Main Results:
- Improved 5-year survival rate of 81%; 5-year progression-free survival was 51%.
- 100% 5-year survival for benign tumors; 0% for malignant tumors.
- High morbidity in survivors: focal neurologic deficits (8/13), epilepsy (7/13), cognitive disability (7/12).
Conclusions:
- While survival has improved, significant neurocognitive morbidity remains a challenge.
- Future protocols must incorporate neurocognitive and functional outcomes for accurate prognostication.
- Early intervention programs are crucial for affected infants and their families.
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