Analysis of the histological types of intracranial tumours at the Chris Hani Baragwanath hospital: 2004-2009

Abstract

There is currently insufficient epidemiological data regarding the incidence of intracranial tumours in South Africa and in particular regionally, within Gauteng province. In this study, we aim to describe epidemiological data pertaining to histologically confirmed intracranial tumours at a large neurosurgery centre in Johannesburg, South Africa and to compare this data to similar international series. In addition, we will establish the frequency of different histological types of tumours and identify differences in prevalence of these tumours when the sample group has been stratified by age , race and gender. Methods: Data collection was via a retrospective analysis of patient records, operating theatre registries and histopathological reports for patients diagnosed and treated at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital between 2004 and 2009. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using variables: age, gender, race and histological types of tumours Conclusion: At our facility, the most common intracranial tumours noted were meningiomas, pituitary adenomas, glioblastomas, medulloblastomas and craniopharyngiomas. Black patients showed higher frequencies of meningeal tumours and sellar region tumours. Tumours originating from the cranial nerves and meninges were commoner in females. Glioblastomas and craniopharyngiomas displayed a male predominance. Intracranial tumours in general occurred in younger patients at our facility than noted in the current literature. This trend was especially evident in glioblastomas and meningiomas. The benefits of both national and regional intracranial tumour registries in South Africa, would include more accurate estimates of the tumour burden and better resource allocation.