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Journal of Neuro-Oncology

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04-03-2024 | Cancer Biomarker | Research

Clinical characteristics and predictive factors of delayed diagnosis in patients with sellar germ cell tumors

Authors: Tao Tong, Han Chen, Caiyan Mo, Liyong Zhong

Published in: Journal of Neuro-Oncology | Issue 3/2024

Abstract

Purpose

To investigate the clinical characteristics and predictive factors associated with delayed diagnosis in patients with sellar germ cell tumors (GCTs), aiming for early diagnosis.

Methods

A total of 345 patients with sellar GCTs were retrospectively collected. Patients were classified into a delayed diagnosis group (> 6 months from onset to diagnosis) and a non-delayed diagnosis group (≤ 6 months). We compared general characteristics, clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment strategies, tumor prognosis, and pituitary function between the two groups. Predictive factors for delayed diagnosis were explored using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

225 patients (65.2%) experienced delayed diagnosis. Although there was no association between delayed diagnosis and survival rates or tumor recurrence rates, the delayed diagnosis group had a higher incidence of central diabetes insipidus, central adrenal insufficiency, central hypothyroidism, central hypogonadism, and growth hormone deficiency. Moreover, polyuria/polydipsia (OR 5.46; 95% CI 2.33–12.81), slow growth (OR 5.86; 95% CI 2.61–13.14), amenorrhea (OR 6.82; 95% CI 2.68–17.37), and germinoma (OR 4.99; 95% CI 1.08–3.61) were associated with a higher risk of delayed diagnosis, while older age of onset (OR 0.88; 95% CI 0.84–0.94) and nausea/vomiting (OR 0.31; 95% CI 0.15–0.63) contributed to earlier diagnosis.

Conclusion

In patients with sellar GCTs, delayed diagnosis is common and linked to increased pituitary dysfunction. The initial symptoms of slow growth, polyuria/polydipsia, and amenorrhea, as well as germinoma with negative tumor markers, predict the possibility of a delayed diagnosis. Early diagnosis is crucial to minimize the impact of sellar GCTs on pituitary function.

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Title: Clinical characteristics and predictive factors of delayed diagnosis in patients with sellar germ cell tumors
Authors: Tao Tong
Han Chen
Caiyan Mo
Liyong Zhong
Publication date: 04-03-2024
Publisher: Springer US
Keywords: Cancer Biomarker
Amenorrhoea
Vomiting
Published in: Journal of Neuro-Oncology / Issue 3/2024
Print ISSN: 0167-594X
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7373
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11060-024-04626-1

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Clinical characteristics and predictive factors of delayed diagnosis in patients with sellar germ cell tumors

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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