Related Experiment Videos
Wilms' tumour (nephroblastoma) in Zimbabwe
F K Nkrumah1, A K Danzo, R Kumar
1Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Zimbabwe.
Annals of Tropical Paediatrics
|June 1, 1989
Summary
Wilms' tumour (nephroblastoma) management in Harare yielded good results, with 77% of patients surviving disease-free after 2 years. This study highlights successful outcomes despite late disease presentation in pediatric cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Nephrology
- Public Health
Background:
- Wilms' tumour (nephroblastoma) is a common pediatric kidney cancer.
- Delayed presentation with advanced disease is a challenge in resource-limited settings.
- Effective management strategies are crucial for improving outcomes in children with Wilms' tumour.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of Wilms' tumour management at Parirenyatwa Hospital, Harare.
- To assess the survival rates and relapse-free survival in pediatric patients.
- To compare management results with those from developed countries.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 57 Wilms' tumour cases diagnosed between 1984-1987.
- Multimodal approach to management including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
- Follow-up of patients for 10 to greater than 36 months post-presentation.
Main Results:
- The majority of patients (two-thirds) were under 4 years old.
- Most patients presented with advanced Wilms' tumour.
- Forty-four out of 57 patients (77%) were alive and disease-free at follow-up.
- Overall 2-year relapse-free survival was 64.9%.
Conclusions:
- A multimodal management approach can achieve favorable outcomes for Wilms' tumour, even with late presentation.
- Results compare favorably with international standards, demonstrating effective pediatric cancer care.
- Continued efforts in early diagnosis and treatment are essential for further improving survival rates.