Neonatal neoplasms.

OBJECTIVE

To describe neoplasms diagnosed in children

METHODS

Utilizing autopsy records, a computerized tumor registry, and medical records, we identified patients and stillborns at Duke University Medical Center (DUMC) diagnosed with neoplasms at

RESULTS

Twenty-three neonates with neoplasms were identified. There were 7 males (30%) and 16 females (70%). Follow-up of survivors ranged from 4 months to 27 years (mean 9 years). The 20 patients identified via the computerized registry system for 1980-1998 constitute 2% (20/925) of all neoplasms seen in patients

CONCLUSIONS

The most common neonatal neoplasm histologic diagnoses are teratoma/germ cell tumor, neuroblastoma, and retinoblastoma. Neonatal neoplasms may be associated with congenital anomalies. Radiation therapy is administered infrequently in a population highly susceptible to late ill effects. When radiotherapy is required, anesthesia may be repetitively administered to aid in reproducible treatment.