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Tong T, Chen H, Mo C, Zhong L. Clinical characteristics and predictive factors of delayed diagnosis in patients with sellar germ cell tumors. J Neurooncol 2024; 167:467-476. [PMID: 38438767 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-024-04626-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the clinical characteristics and predictive factors associated with delayed diagnosis in patients with sellar germ cell tumors (GCTs), aiming for early diagnosis. METHODS A total of 345 patients with sellar GCTs were retrospectively collected. Patients were classified into a delayed diagnosis group (> 6 months from onset to diagnosis) and a non-delayed diagnosis group (≤ 6 months). We compared general characteristics, clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment strategies, tumor prognosis, and pituitary function between the two groups. Predictive factors for delayed diagnosis were explored using multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS 225 patients (65.2%) experienced delayed diagnosis. Although there was no association between delayed diagnosis and survival rates or tumor recurrence rates, the delayed diagnosis group had a higher incidence of central diabetes insipidus, central adrenal insufficiency, central hypothyroidism, central hypogonadism, and growth hormone deficiency. Moreover, polyuria/polydipsia (OR 5.46; 95% CI 2.33-12.81), slow growth (OR 5.86; 95% CI 2.61-13.14), amenorrhea (OR 6.82; 95% CI 2.68-17.37), and germinoma (OR 4.99; 95% CI 1.08-3.61) were associated with a higher risk of delayed diagnosis, while older age of onset (OR 0.88; 95% CI 0.84-0.94) and nausea/vomiting (OR 0.31; 95% CI 0.15-0.63) contributed to earlier diagnosis. CONCLUSION In patients with sellar GCTs, delayed diagnosis is common and linked to increased pituitary dysfunction. The initial symptoms of slow growth, polyuria/polydipsia, and amenorrhea, as well as germinoma with negative tumor markers, predict the possibility of a delayed diagnosis. Early diagnosis is crucial to minimize the impact of sellar GCTs on pituitary function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Tong
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119, South 4th Ring Road West, 100071, Beijing, China
| | - Han Chen
- Department of Geriatrics, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100035, Beijing, China
| | - Caiyan Mo
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119, South 4th Ring Road West, 100071, Beijing, China
| | - Liyong Zhong
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119, South 4th Ring Road West, 100071, Beijing, China.
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Tong T, Zhong LY. Intracranial germ cell tumors: a view of the endocrinologist. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2023; 36:1115-1127. [PMID: 37899276 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2023-0368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Intracranial germ cell tumors (iGCTs) are rare malignant neoplasms that mainly affect children and adolescents. The incidence, clinical presentation, and prognosis of iGCTs exhibit high heterogeneity. Previous studies have primarily focused on eliminating tumors, reducing tumor recurrence, and improving survival rates, while neglecting the impact of the tumors and their treatment on neuroendocrine function. Throughout the entire course of the disease, neuroendocrine dysfunction may occur and is frequently overlooked by oncologists, neurosurgeons, and radiologists. Endocrinologists, however, are more interested in this issue and have varying priorities at different stages of the disease. From onset to the diagnostic phase, most patients with iGCTs may present with symptoms related to impaired neuroendocrine function, or even experience these symptoms as their first indication of the condition. Particularly, a minority of patients with sellar/suprasellar lesions may exhibit typical imaging features and elevated tumor markers long after the onset of initial symptoms. This can further complicate the diagnosis process. During the peritumor treatment phase, the neuroendocrine function shows dynamic changes and needs to be evaluated dynamically. Once diabetes insipidus and dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axes occur, hormone replacement therapy should be administered promptly to ensure successful tumor treatment for the patient. Subsequently, during the long-term management phase after the completion of tumor treatment, the evaluation of growth and development as well as corresponding hormone replacement therapy are the most concerning and complex issues. Thus, this paper reviews the interest of endocrinologists in iGCTs at different stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Tong
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Li-Yong Zhong
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P.R. China
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Kehoe K, Sivaguru H, Coulter I, Cowie C. Delay in the diagnosis of paediatric brain tumours: a systematic review. Childs Nerv Syst 2023; 39:2053-2063. [PMID: 37336792 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-06022-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE A delay in obtaining a diagnosis has been associated with inferior outcomes across several cancer types, including paediatric brain tumours. However, no clear evidence exists in this population. We aimed to quantify the reported pre-diagnostic symptom interval (PSI) as the time from onset of first symptoms to diagnosis in the literature, in addition to evaluating the relationship between delay and outcomes, including survival. METHODS A systematic review of the literature was performed in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. MEDLINE, Wiley Online Library, Web of Science and EMBASE databases were searched. We considered all sources published between 1st January 2010 and 5th November 2022. Children and adolescents aged under 21 years, with new symptomatic primary brain tumour diagnoses, were included. RESULTS Of 3123 studies identified, 11 were included for analysis. Owing to study heterogeneity, a quantitative meta-analysis was not feasible; however, a narrative synthesis was performed. The median reported PSI varied widely, ranging between 28 and 760.8 days. We failed to identify a significant association between prolonged PSI and inferior overall survival. Few factors were consistently associated with prolonged PSI, amongst them only tumour grade and patient age. CONCLUSION Delayed diagnosis of paediatric brain tumours was not associated with inferior survival within this review. This 'waiting time' paradox appears to result from several confounding factors including tumour biology, patient population and key systematic factors that were inconsistently reported. Diagnostic interval clearly presents a complex variable, reflected further by disparity in the reporting of delay within the literature. Ultimately diagnostic interval is unlikely to provide a meaningful representation for all tumour types and should not detract from sharp clinical acumen and prompt diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy Kehoe
- Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK.
| | - Hansini Sivaguru
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ian Coulter
- Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Christopher Cowie
- Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
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Cotache-Condor C, Kantety V, Grimm A, Williamson J, Landrum KR, Schroeder K, Staton C, Majaliwa E, Tang S, Rice HE, Smith ER. Determinants of delayed childhood cancer care in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023; 70:e30175. [PMID: 36579761 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Early access to care is essential to improve survival rates for childhood cancer. This study evaluates the determinants of delays in childhood cancer care in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) through a systematic review of the literature. We proposed a novel Three-Delay framework specific to childhood cancer in LMICs by summarizing 43 determinants and 24 risk factors of delayed cancer care from 95 studies. Traditional medicine, household income, lack of transportation, rural population, parental education, and travel distance influenced most domains of our framework. Our novel framework can be used as a policy tool toward improving cancer care and outcomes for children in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vinootna Kantety
- Department of Public Health, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Andie Grimm
- Birmingham's Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | | | - Kelsey R Landrum
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kristin Schroeder
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Catherine Staton
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Surgery, Duke School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Esther Majaliwa
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Shenglan Tang
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Henry E Rice
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Emily R Smith
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Surgery, Duke School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Partenope C, Pozzobon G, Weber G, Carceller F, Albanese A. Implications of deferred diagnosis of paediatric intracranial germ cell tumours. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023; 70:e30168. [PMID: 36582128 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study analysed the clinical features of a cohort of children with intracranial germ cell tumours (IC-GCTs). We retrospectively reviewed timelag between symptoms onset, clinic-radiological findings, diagnosis and outcomes. METHODS Symptoms at diagnosis were divided into four groups: (1) raised intracranial pressure (RICP); (2) visual impairment; (3) endocrinopathies; (4) other. Total diagnostic interval (TDI), defined as the interval between symptom onset (including retrospective recall of symptoms) and definitive diagnosis of IC-GCT, was calculated and compared to survival rates. RESULTS Our cohort included 55 children with median follow-up of 78.9 months (0.5-249.9). The majority (63.6%) had germinomas and 10.9% were metastatic at diagnosis. IC-GCTs were suprasellar (41.8%), pineal (36.4%), bifocal (12.7%) or in atypical sites (9.1%). The most common presenting symptoms were related to RICP (43.6%); however, by the time of tumour diagnosis, 50.9% of patients had developed endocrine dysfunctions. All pineal GCTs manifested with RICP or visual impairment. All suprasellar GCTs presented with endocrinopathies. TDI ranged between 0.25 and 58.5 months (median 4 months). Pineal GCTs had the shortest TDI (median TDI 1 month versus 24 months in suprasellar GCTs, p < .001). TDI > 6 months was observed in 47.3% of patients and was significantly associated with endocrine presenting symptoms. No statistically significant difference was found in progression-free survival and overall survival between patients with TDI > 6 months and with TDI ≤ 6 months. CONCLUSION Approximately half of the IC-GCT patients in this cohort had TDI > 6 months. These presented mostly with endocrine deficits. TDI > 6 months was not associated with increased relapse or mortality rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Partenope
- Department of Pediatrics, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Gabriella Pozzobon
- Department of Pediatrics, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanna Weber
- Department of Pediatrics, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Fernando Carceller
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Neuro-Oncology and Drug Development Team, Children and Young People's Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital and Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, UK
| | - Assunta Albanese
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Amayiri N, Sarhan N, Yousef Y, Ibrahimi AK, Abu-Shanab S, Al-Zebin Z, Al-Hussaini M, Musharbash A, Tawalbeh A, Bouffet E, Bartels U. Feasibility of treating pediatric intracranial germ cell tumors in a middle-income country: The Jordanian experience. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e30011. [PMID: 36131594 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric intracranial germ cell tumors (iGCT) are rare, with limited data available from Arabic countries. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of children <18 years diagnosed with iGCT at King Hussein Cancer Center/Jordan (January 2003 to December 2020) for clinical characteristics, treatment, and morbidities. RESULTS Sixteen patients had germinoma; median age was 6.9 years and median symptoms duration 8 months. Nine tumors were suprasellar, five pineal, and two bifocal. Four were metastatic. Eight patients had slightly elevated beta subunit human chorionic gonadotropin and 11 patients had resection/biopsy. Fifteen patients received chemotherapy; mostly carboplatin (450 mg/m2 )/etoposide, which had low toxicity. All patients received radiotherapy (different doses and fields). At median follow-up of 7.7 years, one tumor recurred (progression-free survival: 91% ± 8%). Twelve patients who continued follow-up had stable visual and endocrine deficits to their initial presentation. Five finished or are finishing diploma and seven had poor school performance (four left school). Six patients were diagnosed with nongerminomatous germ cell tumor; median symptom duration was 1 month. Three tumors were pineal, two suprasellar, and one at quadrigeminal plate. Three were metastatic. Five tested patients had high tumor markers and four had resection/biopsy. All patients received chemotherapy, and then five received craniospinal radiation. Two patients are alive, two died with tumor progression, one died in remission with electrolyte imbalance, and one developed leukemia and died with septic shock. CONCLUSIONS We achieved excellent survival in treating germinoma using a feasible protocol for low middle-income countries. However, patients encountered significant morbidities exacerbated by delayed diagnosis and unnecessary surgical interventions despite abnormal tumor markers. Raising awareness on iGCT symptomatology and diagnosis may help limit these morbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisreen Amayiri
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Nasim Sarhan
- Radiation Oncology Department, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Yacoub Yousef
- Surgery Department, Ophthalmology Division, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ahmed Kh Ibrahimi
- Radiation Oncology Department, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Sobuh Abu-Shanab
- Psychosocial Oncology Program, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Zebin Al-Zebin
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Maysa Al-Hussaini
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Awni Musharbash
- Surgery Department, Neurosurgery Division, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ahmed Tawalbeh
- Office of Scientific Affairs and Research, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Eric Bouffet
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ute Bartels
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Muroi A, Takano S, Tsurubuchi T, Sekine T, Fukushima H, Suzuki R, Yamaki Y, Matsuda M, Akutsu H, Ishikawa E. Involvement of the optic pathway and outcome of visual function in patients with neurohypophyseal germ cell tumor. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2021; 163:3191-3199. [PMID: 34338879 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-021-04946-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with neurohypophyseal germ cell tumors (GCTs) typically present with visual problems. Hence, this study aimed to assess optic pathway involvement based on clinical and radiological findings and to validate the outcome of visual function. METHODS A total of 16 patients with newly diagnosed neurohypophyseal GCTs who were treated at the University of Tsukuba Hospital between 2000 and 2020 were included in this study. RESULTS The median interval from symptom onset to diagnosis was 173.5 days (range, 33-1588 days). Patients with visual disturbance at diagnosis had a longer time to diagnosis compared with those without. Ophthalmologic abnormalities were frequently observed, with an incidence rate of 69%. Fifty percent of patients exhibited optic pathway involvement detected via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Visual impairment was more severe in the patients with optic pathway involvement (p = 0.002). Post-treatment visual impairment was improved but was still significantly severe in patients with optic pathway involvement than in those without involvement (p = 0.010). Visual field deficit more likely remained with an improvement rate of 50%, whereas the improvement rate of visual acuity was 78%. Further, none developed late-onset visual deterioration during the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS Visual disturbance and optic pathway involvement are common in neurohypophyseal GCTs. Visual impairment particularly in patients with optic pathway involvement on MRI is more likely to remain at follow-up, although the outcome of visual function is acceptable in most cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai Muroi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Shingo Takano
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Takao Tsurubuchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tomokazu Sekine
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroko Fukushima
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Ryoko Suzuki
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yuni Yamaki
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Masahide Matsuda
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroyoshi Akutsu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Eiichi Ishikawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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Chang HY, Chiu CF, Jung SM, Wong AMC, Wu CT, Lo FS. Neurological and endocrinological manifestations of 49 children with intracranial pure germinoma at initial diagnosis in Taiwan. Pediatr Neonatol 2021; 62:106-112. [PMID: 33218934 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedneo.2020.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intracranial pure germinoma is a rare extragonadal neoplasm. Affected patients may have motor impairment, visual disturbance, neurological signs, and endocrine disorder, depending on the size and location of the tumor. This study investigated and analyzed patients' demographic data and neuroimaging, clinical, laboratory, and endocrinological findings. METHODS We performed a retrospective chart review of 49 children diagnosed with pure germinoma in Taiwan from 1990 to 2018. The initial clinical presentation, tumor markers (beta-hCG, alpha fetoprotein, and carcinoembryonic antigen), pituitary function, and brain images were reviewed and analyzed. RESULTS This study included 49 patients (37 boys and 12 girls). Their ages ranged from 7.5 to 17.9 years, and the mean age at diagnosis was 13.6 years. Initial symptoms included visual disturbance (n = 23, 47.9%), motor impairment (n = 20, 40.8%), polyuria (n = 20, 40.8%), headache (n = 17, 34.7%), dizziness or vertigo (n = 14, 28.6%), nausea/vomiting (n = 13, 26.5%), and short stature (n = 8, 18.2%). Laboratory data indicated growth hormone deficiency or low IGF-1 levels (n = 18, 85.7%), adrenal insufficiency (n = 21, 77.8%), central diabetes insipidus (n = 27, 55.1%), central hypothyroidism (n = 15, 48.4%), and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (n = 4, 44.4%). CONCLUSION Intracranial pure germinomas may initially manifest as neurological symptoms or endocrinological findings at diagnosis. As endocrinologic presentation is related to delayed diagnosis, clinicians should be aware of patients with such complaints. Laboratory data should be surveyed carefully, and neuroimaging must be considered if the result is abnormal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Yuan Chang
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taiwan
| | - Chiao-Fan Chiu
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Ming Jung
- Department of Pathology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Alex Mun-Ching Wong
- Department of Medical Imaging and Intervention, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung/Linkou, and Chang Gung University, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Tsai Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Sung Lo
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taiwan.
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Hirata K, Muroi A, Tsurubuchi T, Fukushima H, Suzuki R, Yamaki Y, Ishikawa E, Matsumura A. Time to diagnosis and clinical characteristics in pediatric brain tumor patients. Childs Nerv Syst 2020; 36:2047-2054. [PMID: 32157367 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-020-04573-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to identify factors that affect the time to diagnosis in pediatric brain tumors and investigate the effect of time to diagnosis on clinical outcome. METHODS A retrospective study of children with brain tumors aged less than 18 years diagnosed at the University of Tsukuba Hospital over a period of 7 years was conducted. RESULTS Eighty-five consecutive patients, with a mean age of 9.1 years, were included in the study. The median interval from symptom onset to diagnosis was 45 days (range 0-1673); median interval from symptom onset to first presentation was 31.0 days; and median interval from first presentation to diagnosis was 13.5 days. Germinoma had the longest interval from symptom onset to first presentation, and from first presentation to diagnosis. Patients presenting with endocrine disorder had a significantly longer interval from symptom onset to first presentation (p = 0.019); those with visual disturbance (p = 0.016) or endocrine disorder (p = 0.030) had significantly longer intervals from first presentation to diagnosis. CONCLUSION Pediatric brain tumor patients with germinoma and presenting symptoms of endocrine disorder or visual disturbance have a longer time to diagnosis. Although improved prognosis is not clearly related to a shorter time to diagnosis, we believe that early diagnosis can lead to improved treatment and better quality of life. A detailed medical history and neuroimaging studies at the earliest time possible are important for early diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Hirata
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Ai Muroi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Takao Tsurubuchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroko Fukushima
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Ryoko Suzuki
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Yuni Yamaki
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Eiichi Ishikawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Akira Matsumura
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Ibaraki, Japan
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10
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Wang Z, Zhu J, Yao Y, Zhu H, Deng K, Lu L, Zhang Y, Duan L, Wang L, Yang H, Xiao Y, Zhao D, You H, Feng F, Ma J, Wang X, Pan H. Clinical and pathological features of 124 patients with indistinguishable sellar lesions and central diabetes insipidus. J Clin Neurosci 2020; 80:215-222. [PMID: 33099348 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sellar lesions with central diabetes insipidus have a wide range of causes, and diagnosis is relatively difficult. The indication and clinical value of biopsy are still controversial. OBJECTIVE To describe the etiology, demographic characteristics, manifestations, laboratory tests and imaging findings of this disease and to explore the clinical value and safety of endoscopic transsphenoidal biopsy. METHODS Retrospective analysis of 124 patients with sellar lesions and central diabetes insipidus who underwent endoscopic transsphenoidal biopsy at the Neurosurgery Department, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, from 2011 to 2019. RESULTS The main etiology includes congenital diseases, inflammatory/infectious diseases and tumor diseases. The most common diseases were germ cell tumors, Langerhans cell histiocytosis, lymphocytic hypophysitis, and Rathke's cleft cysts. Except for the age at the time of biopsy of patients with tumor diseases, which was significantly lower than that of the other two, the other clinical manifestations of the three types of diseases were not significantly different. Among the 124 patients, biopsy was performed via an endoscopic transsphenoidal approach for 101 with intrasellarly available lesions or via an endoscopic extended transsphenoidal approach for 23 with intrasellarly unavailable lesions. 6 patients had central nervous system infections after surgery, and 3 had cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, of which 2 were surgically repaired. These incidences were basically the same as those of classic surgery. 2 patients had worse visual acuity, 2 had worse visual field, and 2 had worse eye movement. Excepting one patient, all of whom have recovered after treatment. CONCLUSIONS Noninvasive examination is difficult for identifying the common causes of this type of disease. Endoscopic transsphenoidal biopsy is relatively safe and effective, helps doctors to select the best treatment for patients, and is worth promoting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhicheng Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
| | - Jianyu Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yong Yao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
| | - Huijuan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
| | - Kan Deng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lin Lu
- Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lian Duan
- Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Linjie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Hongbo Yang
- Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yu Xiao
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Dachun Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Hui You
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Feng Feng
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jin Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xuqian Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Hui Pan
- Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
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11
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Hayden J, Murray MJ, Bartels U, Ajithkumar T, Muthusamy B, Penn A, Calaminus G, Nicholson J. Symptom interval and treatment burden for patients with malignant central nervous system germ cell tumours. Arch Dis Child 2020; 105:247-252. [PMID: 31594777 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2019-317245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with central nervous system germ cell tumours (CNS-GCTs) commonly initially present to primary care or general paediatricians. Prolonged symptom intervals (SI) are frequently seen in CNS-GCTs and have been associated with inferior outcomes in other brain tumours. This study reviewed the clinical presentation of CNS-GCTs and examined the effect of prolonged SI. DESIGN/SETTING/PATIENTS/OUTCOMES International multicentre 10-year retrospective study (2002-2011 inclusive), across six international paediatric oncology treatment centres. All newly diagnosed patients with CNS-GCT were included. Main outcome measure was time interval from first symptom to diagnosis. RESULTS The study cohort included 86 (58 males:28 female) patients (59 'germinoma' and 27 'non-germinomatous' GCTs), with tumours being pineal (n=33), suprasellar (n=25), bifocal (pineal+suprasellar; n=24) and 'other' site (n=4), of which 16 (19%) were metastatic. Median age at diagnosis was 14 years (0-23 years). The time to diagnosis from first symptom (SI) was 0-69 months (median 3 months, mean 9 months). A prolonged SI (>6 months) was observed in 28/86 patients (33%) and significantly associated with metastatic disease (11/28 (39%) vs 5/58 (9%); p=0.002)) at diagnosis, but not overall survival. With prolonged SI, endocrine symptoms, particularly diabetes insipidus, were more common (21/28 (75%) vs 14/58 (24%) patients; p<0.002), but raised intracranial pressure (RICP) was less frequent (4/28 (14%) vs 43/58 (74%) patients; p<0.001)) at first symptom. CONCLUSIONS One-third of patients with CNS-GCT have >6 months of symptoms prior to diagnosis. Delayed diagnosis is associated with metastatic disease. Early symptom recognition, particularly related to visual and hormonal disturbances in the absence of RICP, may improve timely diagnosis, reduce metastatic disease frequency and consequently reduce treatment burden and late effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Hayden
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK.,Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Great North Children's Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Matthew J Murray
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ute Bartels
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Paediatric Brain Tumour Program, SickKids, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thankamma Ajithkumar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Brinda Muthusamy
- Department of Paediatric Neuro-Ophthalmology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anthony Penn
- Children's Brain Tumour Research Network (CBTRN), Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester, UK.,Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Gabriele Calaminus
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - James Nicholson
- Paediatric Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
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12
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Malignant Craniopharyngioma: A Report of Seven Cases and Review of the Literature. World Neurosurg 2020; 135:e194-e201. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2019.11.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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