Outcome predictors in the management of spinal cord ependymoma

The aim of this study was to determine predictors of functional outcome and survival in a retrospective cohort of spinal cord ependymomas treated at a single institution. Twenty-six patients who underwent treatment of spinal cord ependymoma at a single institution were retrospectively analysed. The...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:European spine journal 2007-03, Vol.16 (3), p.399-404
Main Authors: Gavin Quigley, D, Farooqi, Naeem, Pigott, Timothy J D, Findlay, Gordon F G, Pillay, Robin, Buxton, Neil, Jenkinson, Michael D
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Aged
Cohort Studies
Combined Modality Therapy
Data Interpretation, Statistical
Disease-Free Survival
Ependymoma - diagnosis
Ependymoma - radiotherapy
Ependymoma - surgery
Humans
Middle Aged
Original
Predictive Value of Tests
Prognosis
Radiotherapy, Adjuvant
Retrospective Studies
Spinal Cord Neoplasms - diagnosis
Spinal Cord Neoplasms - radiotherapy
Spinal Cord Neoplasms - surgery
Treatment Outcome
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Summary:The aim of this study was to determine predictors of functional outcome and survival in a retrospective cohort of spinal cord ependymomas treated at a single institution. Twenty-six patients who underwent treatment of spinal cord ependymoma at a single institution were retrospectively analysed. The clinicopathological features were reviewed and correlated with functional outcome (measured using the Frankel grade), recurrence (clinical or radiological), progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Seventy-nine percent of patients with complete excision had maintained or improved functional outcome, compared to 75% in the incomplete resection plus radiotherapy group. Patients with a good pre-operative Frankel grade tended to maintain their functional status, though this did not reach statistical significance (Fisher's Exact test, P = 0.090). Univariate analysis revealed that longer symptom duration prior to treatment was associated with poorer functional outcome (P = 0.006). Extent of resection and the use of adjuvant radiotherapy did not influence PFS or OS; however, early diagnosis and treatment are paramount in the management of spinal ependymoma if a good functional outcome is to be achieved.
ISSN:0940-6719
1432-0932
DOI:10.1007/s00586-006-0168-y