A retrospective analysis of potential prognostic factors in children with rhabdomyosarcoma

Authors

  • Thulani Nyathi University of the Witwatersrand
  • Debbie G. van der Merwe
  • Harriet R. Copelyn

Keywords:

Parameningeal, survival data, alveolar.

Abstract

A retrospective study was done to identify significant prognostic factors in thirty-nine children with parameningeal or orbital rhabdomyosarcoma who were treated with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation. Statistical analysis was done using the Cox proportional hazard regression model and the study end-point was overall survival. The influence of the analyzed potential prognostic factors was found not to be statistically significant. The estimated 2-year and 5-year overall survivals were 88% and 55% respectively. Patients aged below 6 years, with embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma, who were treated using two-dimensional radiotherapy treatment plans, and girls with orbital rhabdomyosarcoma, had a better overall survival rate.

Author Biographies

Thulani Nyathi, University of the Witwatersrand

MSc, School of Physics, University of the Witwatersrand

Debbie G. van der Merwe

PhD, Johannesburg Hospital Area 248: Division of Medical Physics

Harriet R. Copelyn

MBBCh, FC Rad Onc., Johannesburg Hospital Area 248: Division of Radiation Oncology

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Original Articles