Pattern of postchemotherapy-associated complicatioins in a paediatric oncology service in Lagos: An observational study

Abstract

Background: Globally, there is an increase in the number of pediatric oncology cases with significant morbidity and mortality in the low to middle income countries (LMIC) despite improved survival in the resource endowed nations. The increase in survival is largely due to the revolutionary use of multi strategy therapeutic interventions like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy. These modalities are however fraught with several complications. AIM The aim of this study was to prospectively observe and document the common complications following treatment of childhood cancers in a tertiary pediatric oncology unit in a resource constrained setting. Methods: This was a longitudinal observational study over a three-year period involving children with various cancers. Ethical approval was obtained from the hospital's human, research and ethics committee. A questionnaire was used to obtain socio-demographic data as well as details of adverse events encountered. Results: A total of 100 children enrolled in the study with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia been the commonest cancer. Gastrointestinal adverse events were the most common in the study cohort with alopecia rarely reported. Conclusion: Increased awareness of the common complications in this environment and prophylactic medications may improve the care of children post chemotherapy thereby reducing overall morbidity and cost of care.