Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Delay of Diagnosis and Treatment: Outcomes in Pediatric malignant solid tumors

Authors : Selma Çakmakci, Neriman Sari, Arzu Yazal Erdem, Derya Özyörük, Aslınur Özkaya Parlakay, Sonay Incesoy Özdemir, Inci Ergürhan Ilhan

Pages : 27-33

Doi:10.12956/tchd.1336555

View : 130 | Download : 82

Publication Date : 2024-01-10

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Objective: Restriction of access to healthcare during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a major problem for patients with cancer. Although childhood cancers are highly curable, it is obvious that diagnostic and treatment disruptions will lead to poor results. In our study, we investigated whether children with newly diagnosed cancer and under treatment were affected by the restrictions and the clinical course and outcomes of patients diagnosed with COVID-19 during cancer treatment. Materials and Methods: We applied a questionnaire consisting of 18 questions to parents. Data were collected from medical files of patients diagnosed with COVID-19 during anticancer treatment. Results: Thirty-five of the patients were newly diagnosed and 55 patients were on-going treatment. Since 13 (38%) of newly diagnosed patients visited the hospital late, cancer diagnosis was delayed. Treatment delay occurred in 9 (16%) of the patients whose receiving chemotherapy. Fifty-eight patients developed COVID-19 infection at different stages of their anticancer treatment. Almost all patients recovered from COVID-19 with mild symptoms. Conclusion: While strict measures are required to control the pandemic, patients with severe critical illness such as cancer should be carefully evaluated and treatment delays that may have vital consequences should be avoided. In pediatric patients with cancer whom infected by COVID-19, continuation of anticancer treatment should be considered by evaluating the clinical status of the patient.
Keywords : COVID 19, Çocuk, Kanser

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