Primitive Ocular Cancers in the University Hospital of Brazzaville

Abstract

Introduction: With the exception of retinoblastoma and melanoma of the uveal tract, primitive ocular cancers originate from the accessory structures of the eye, especially the eyelids and the conjunctiva. While in developed countries these cancers are mostly encountered after 60 years, in black Africa their prevalence has increased in young adults. Objective: To determine the epidemiological, clinical and histological profile of these tumors in the University Hospital of Brazzaville. Methodology: Mini analysis of nine (9) of our publications, published between 2015 and 2017, in the journals: East African Medical Journal, Health Science and Diseases, EC Ophthalmology, and Revue de Médecine et de Pharmacie. HIV serology has been systematically requested except for cases of retinoblastoma. Histological evidence was made in all cases. Results: 86 patients had been seen. Average age 31.2 years (2 years - 75 years), sex ratio equal to 1.08. Reasons for consultation: exophthalmia (44), mass (35%), leucocoria (20%) and palpebral wounds (1%). Affected structures: conjunctiva (38%), retina (35%) and eyelid (27%). Histological types: squamous cell carcinoma (55.5%), retinoblastoma (25.9%), basal cell carcinoma (8.5%), sebaceous carcinoma (5.5%), Kaposia’s sarcoma (3.5%) and acral melanoma lentiginous (1.1%). HIV serology was positive in 38% overall, but in 100% of conjunctival cancers. Conclusion: Primitive ocular cancers are dominated in children by retinoblastoma. In young adults, these are essentially opportunistic cancers in the context of HIV / AIDS.