Interim PET-CT: Predictive marker and therapeutic modification tool of
pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma
Abstract
Hodgkin lymphoma is a haematolymphoid malignancy seen in pediatric and
adult age groups with an excellent outcome. The current priority of the
treatment has been a reduction of acute and chronic morbidities without
compromising outcomes. PET-CT scan is an integral component in
prognosticating and determining outcomes in Hodgkin lymphoma. Recent
studies have highlighted the role of interim PET-CT scan in choosing
future therapy. The evidence to support the role of interim PET-CT scan
in childhood Hodgkin lymphoma is limited. The aim of the study is to
analyse the role of interim PET-CT in the management of childhood HL,
and to investigate survival outcomes of children treated at our
institute. This is a retrospective study and included all the children
with HL treated at our institute in last five years. All the children
were treated as per ESMO guidelines. Interim PET-CT scan was done after
two cycles of chemotherapy. The correlation of various possible risk
factors with the outcomes was examined. Only the interim PET/CT findings
were associated with the results. At median follow-up of 34 months, the
event free survival (EFS) was 95.7% and overall survival (OS) was
100%. Interim PET-CT plays an important role in treatment modification
without compromising on the outcomes in children with HL. Survival rates
were consistent with those reported in published literature.