Assessment of Quality of Life and Long-term Health-related Problems Among Children with Intracranial Tumor

Abstract

Introduction:

The most prevalent type of solid tumor in children is the intracranial tumor. The treatment of pediatric intracranial tumors has acute and late side effects on the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social health of children, which negatively impact their HRQoL.

Objectives:

To assess the quality of life (QoL) and long-term health-related problems in children with intracranial tumors.

Method:

A descriptive study was conducted involving 70 children with intracranial tumors visiting OPD for their post-treatment follow-up. Ethical permission was granted from the Institutional Ethical Committee. Tools used to collect were Sociodemographic and clinical profile sheets of the children, Problem assessment proforma, and PedsQL TM Generic Core 4.0 Scale.

Results:

The age of children ranged from 4 to 18 years with a mean age of 11.31 + 4.28 years. Fatigue (57.1%) was the most common problem experienced by children followed by weakness (41.4%) and headache (25.7%). In neurocognitive dysfunction, decreased attention was seen in 30% of children followed by difficulty in thinking and reading/writing. Muscle power-related problems, endocrine problems, and psychological and behavioral problems were also seen in these children. The total score of QoL of children with intracranial tumors was 70.8 ± 24.6. The most affected domain of QoL was school functioning, followed by physical functioning.

Conclusion:

Children with intracranial tumor show average HRQoL and these children are at a higher risk for late consequences, which may influence several life domains.