Interim PET-CT: Predictive marker and therapeutic modification tool of pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma

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.