Evaluation of chemotherapeutic sequelae and quality of life in survivors of malignant sacrococcygeal teratoma

Purpose The impact of chemotherapeutic sequelae on long-term quality of life (QoL) for survivors of malignant sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) is unknown. The incidence of chemotherapeutic toxicity in patients treated for malignant SCT and possible effects on the QoL were analyzed. Methods Retrospective chart review of patients >= 18 years treated for SCT in the Netherlands was performed. Present QoL was evaluated using the SF-36 questionnaire. The results of survivors of malignant SCT were compared to those of patients treated for benign SCT. Results Fifty-one of 76 traceable patients consented to participate. The results of 47 (92.2 %), 9 men and 38 women (median age 25.4 years, range 18.3-41.2), were analyzed. Eleven had been treated for malignancy; 63.6 % suffered from at least one chemotherapeutic sequel with hearing loss as the most common one. Results for both groups were similar on all but one SF-36 subcategory; those treated for malignant tumor scored significantly lower on the subcategory physical functioning (p = 0.02). Conclusion Despite the high incidence of chemotherapeutic sequelae among survivors of malignant SCT, their QoL does not differ from that of those treated for benign SCT. Even though their physical functioning is restricted, daily activities and psychosocial functioning of survivors of malignant SCT are not restricted.