Epidemiology in pediatric patients with leukemia in a reference hospital in Paraíba

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile of children and adolescents diagnosed with leukemia at an oncology center in the capital of Paraíba. Method: Observational, documentary, descriptive, and retrospective study, through the evaluation of medical records of 83 pediatric patients diagnosed with leukemia between May 2018 and May 2023, at the philanthropic hospital Napoleão Laureano, Paraíba. Anthropometric data, family history, treatment, and outcome were collected. The research site was chosen due to high demand and its location as a reference center. Data were collected using a structured form for statistical analysis of absolute and relative frequencies, in addition to the application of the chi-square test and Fisher's exact test for bivariate analysis. The results were presented in tables and graphs.  Results: The average age range was 6.5 years, with a higher incidence in preschool children (44.58%). There was a greater predominance of females (53%) and mixed race (91.6%). Macroregion 1 had the highest number of patients (73.5%). The most prevalent symptoms were fever (66.26%), bleeding, bruising, and petechiae (34.93%). Acute lymphoblastic leukemia was the most common type (74.7%), including among deaths (68.2%). Chemotherapy was the most commonly used treatment (88%). Conclusion: The study revealed information about the epidemiological profile of the pediatric leukemia population in Paraíba. Despite the high potential for cure, mortality was high compared to developed countries, possibly resulting from limited access and socioeconomic factors. Therefore, improving information recording, as well as early detection, are essential actions, in addition to encouraging professional training strategies and investment in treatments.