Congenital neuroblastoma : a study of 34 cases treated between 1986-1994 in U.K

Abstract EN

-Objective : To collect data on congenital neuroblastoma with respect to their presentation, investigations, treatment and outcome.

Method : The records of 34 neonates with neuroblastoma registered in UKCCSG between 1986-1994 were reviewed.

The diagnosis was made by histological examination in 27 patients and elevated vanillymandelic acid (VMA), with ultrasonography (U/S) in 7 patients.

Prenatal U/S diagnosis was done in 5 cases.

Treatment was given according to Evans and International Neuroblastoma Staging System (INSS); Surgery for stages I & II.

Surgery+ chemotherapy for stages Ill & IV and for stage IV-s was varied according to the progression of the disease.

Results : The overall disease free survival for 34 neonates is 91 °/ o at I 04 months post diagnosis.

Three neonates died (2 with stage IV and 1 with stage IV-s).

The remaining 6 patients have a residual damage due to the disease itself or due to side effect of the treatment.

Conclusion : The prognosis of congenital neuroblastoma is very good compared with that of older children.

Therefore we need to define the high risk patients by doing some biological studies so as not to over-treat the good risk group and to minimize the side effect of the treatment