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This study analyzed retinoblastoma cases from 1963-1983, finding that advanced tumors at diagnosis led to surgery and poor long-term survival for most children with this eye cancer.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Oncology
- Medical History
Context:
- Retrospective analysis of 73 retinoblastoma cases from 1963-1983.
- Data collected from University Hospital of Kinshasa, Zaïre.
- Focus on natural history and prognosis of retinoblastoma.
Purpose:
- To analyze the natural history and prognosis of retinoblastoma.
- To understand treatment outcomes and survival rates in a specific patient cohort.
Summary:
- 33% of cases presented with bilateral retinoblastoma.
- The most common initial sign was a white pupil.
- Advanced tumor stage at diagnosis necessitated surgery, with only 5 children achieving long-term survival (>3 years).
Impact:
- Highlights the challenges in diagnosing and treating retinoblastoma in the studied period and region.
- Underscores the importance of early detection for improved retinoblastoma prognosis.
- Provides historical data on retinoblastoma outcomes.
Abstract:
The natural history and prognosis of retinoblastoma were analysed using data from 73 medical records with diagnosis of retinoblastoma registered during 1963-1983 at University Hospital of Kinshasa (Zaïre). Of the 73 cases, 24 children (33%) were bilaterally affected. There were 38 (52%) boys and 35 (48%) girls. Ages at diagnosis ranged from 1/2 year to 6 years with an average age of 2.4 years. The white pupil was the most common initial sign. Many of our patients were severely affected with massive tumor filling the entire eye with vitreous seeding and poor general condition. Because of the more advanced stage of the tumor at time of diagnosis, surgery was the usual form of treatment. Only 5 children in our series showed a long-term survival, longer than 3 years after surgical treatment for retinoblastoma.