Profile and outcomes of pediatric hematology and oncology patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in the Philippine General Hospital
- Author:
Faustine Richelle C. Ong
1
;
Hazel Valerie T. Yu
1
;
Ana Patricia A. Alcasabas
1
;
Joliza Patricia D. Cañeba
1
;
Jochrys I. Estanislao
1
;
Pamela D. Fajardo
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords: Pediatric hematology oncology; Childhood cancer
- MeSH: COVID-19
- From: Acta Medica Philippina 2024;58(7):163-169
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction:The coronavirus pandemic has affected millions worldwide. Better understanding of COVID-19 in
pediatric hematology-oncology patients in a resource-limited setting is crucial to improve care as the pandemic ensues.
Objectives:This study describes the clinical profile and outcomes of pediatric hematology oncology patients with COVID-19 seen at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH).
Methods:A retrospective, descriptive review of pediatric hematology oncology patients with COVID-19 seen between March 2020 to March 2021 in PGH was done.
Results:Forty patients were identified. Seventeen percent had non-malignant hematologic conditions, 40% had leukemias, and 42.5% had solid tumors. Fever and cough were the most common manifestations. Seventy-six percent were on treatment, 9% were newly diagnosed, and 7% were in relapse or disease progression. Fifty-five percent had mild COVID-19; 5% and 2.5% had severe and critical COVID-19, respectively. Thirty-seven percent were asymptomatic. Cancer-related therapy was placed on hold for most patients. There were two mortalities, none was due to COVID-19.
Conclusion:Results suggest that patients with hematologic and oncologic conditions have a mild course, with majority showing recovery from COVID-19. Delays in cancer-related therapy however, may contribute to disease progression and mortality. - Full text:6865-Article Text-155683-1-10-20240430.pdf
