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Patterns of Retinoblastoma in Zimbabwe: 2000-2009
I Chitsike1, P Kuona, J Dzangare
1Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences P O Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe.
The Central African Journal of Medicine
|August 11, 2015
Summary
Retinoblastoma in Zimbabwean children presents late, with most cases diagnosed after age two. This pediatric cancer shows a male predominance and limited access to timely treatment, impacting outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Oncology
- Cancer Epidemiology
Background:
- Retinoblastoma is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in children.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for vision and survival.
- Understanding the epidemiological patterns in specific regions is vital for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the epidemiological patterns of retinoblastoma in children in Zimbabwe.
- To analyze the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of retinoblastoma cases.
- To identify challenges in managing retinoblastoma in a resource-limited setting.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study design.
- Analysis of data from the Zimbabwe National Cancer Registry and the Paediatric Oncology Unit at Parirenyatwa Tertiary Hospital (2000-2009).
- Inclusion of data on diagnosis, age, gender, clinical presentation, time to diagnosis, and treatment modalities.
Main Results:
- 196 retinoblastoma cases were registered; 89% confirmed histologically.
- Median age at diagnosis was 24 months, with a male predominance (1.3:1).
- Common presentations included proptosis (65%) and leucocoria (26%), with a mean diagnostic delay of 7.7 months. Treatment included enucleation (61%), exenteration (37%), chemotherapy (63%), and radiotherapy (11%).
Conclusions:
- Retinoblastoma is the third most common childhood malignancy in Zimbabwe.
- The study highlights late presentation and limited access to therapy as significant challenges.
- Improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are needed to improve outcomes for pediatric retinoblastoma in Zimbabwe.
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