HOW A PEDIATRIC NEURO-ONCOLOGY UNIT WAS MANAGED IN MADRID DURING THE
FIRST WAVE OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Abstract
During first wave of the COVID pandemic, infection prevention measures
were enforced at our Pediatric Neuro-Oncology unit. A retrospective
study analysing patients booked in this unit during lockdown was
performed to describe its performance. There were 438 consultations for
123 patients (320 on-site/118 telephone). Eight new diagnoses, with one
significant delay. Only one patient tested positive for SARS-COV2. Delay
in imaging testing occurred in 15 patients. Chemotherapy was delayed in
one case and not in radiotherapy. Measures implemented were effective in
minimizing the risk of COVID-19 infection, achieving continuity in
diagnoses and treatment and avoiding delays that could impact survival.