A multi-institutional retrospective study of children and adolescents with hematological cancer who visited oncofertility clinics in the Tokai and Hokuriku regions

Abstract

Background: We established a regional oncofertility network in the Tokai and Hokuriku regions started operating it in August 2020. This network aims to optimize care and improve knowledge about oncofertility. We focused on children and adolescents with hematological cancer in this study.

Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at nine institutions in the Tokai and Hokuriku regions on children and adolescents with hematological cancer. We investigated patients under 18 years of age and diagnosed as having hematological cancer, who visited oncofertility clinics in the nine institutions between January 2013 and June 2021.

Results: This study included 115 patients (71 males and 44 females) with confirmed hematological cancer. The consultation rate was lower in patients younger than 12 years old. Of the 66 patients who attempted sperm cryopreservation, it was unsuccessful in nine patients because of aspermia. Of the 17 patients who attempted ovarian tissue cryopreservation, the cryopreservation before hematopoietic stem cell transplantation was successful in 16 patients. Seven patients also received a perioperative blood transfusion. Among the 11 patients who attempted oocyte cryopreservation, it was achieved in eight patients, including patients under 14 years of age.

Conclusion: We expect to support and improve this oncofertility network to explore the need for fertility-preserving procedures on children and adolescents with hematological cancer.