Abstract
Abstract BACKGROUND Medulloblastoma is the most frequent malignant brain tumor in children and adolescents, accounting for 20–25% of all brain tumors. Epidemiological data is fundamental to optimising pediatric brain tumor (PBT) health services and reducing overall morbidity and mortality. To bridge this gap, we aimed to present comprehensive pediatric medulloblastoma data, focusing on clinical profiles and outcomes within one of the national general hospitals in the country. METHODS A retrospective observational longitudinal study was conducted at Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, focusing on children registered under the PBT service from January 2021 to December 2023. The study analyzed patients’ profiles, medulloblastoma characteristics, factors related to diagnosis delay, and vital status follow-up. RESULTS All 16 patients underwent tumor removal surgery with a mean age of 7.13 ± 5.39 years, with an equal distribution of both sexes (50%). Histological confirmation of medulloblastoma was observed in all patients, with 2/16 (12.5%) classified as WNT, 9/16 (56.3%) as Non-WNT, and 5/16 (31.3%) lacking additional information. Regarding risk stratification, 13/16 (81.3%) of patients were classified as high-risk by age <3, residual tumor >1.5 cm2, and presence of metastasis. Vomiting 6/16 (37.5%), disequilibrium 5/16 (31.3%), and headache 3/16 (18.8%) were the predominant symptoms, with mean duration delay from symptom onset to first medical consultation of 2.5, 1.8, and 6.7 weeks, respectively. In the last follow-up, 5/16 (31.3%) of patients were deceased (4/11 in high-risk and 1/2 in low-risk groups), and 3/16 (18.8%) were lost to follow-up. CONCLUSION This study underscores the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for pediatric medulloblastoma, particularly in high-risk cases, which need heightened awareness among the community and healthcare providers. Additionally, addressing the issue of patients lost to follow-up is crucial for optimizing outcomes. Further research is warranted to enhance diagnostic methods and healthcare services for pediatric brain tumor patients nationwide.
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