Epidemiological profile of brain tumors in Cameroon: a retrospective study

Background: Brain tumors represent group of neoplasms originating from intracranial tissues and the meninges. The aim of this study was to determine the epidemiological profile of brain tumors seen in a referral health center in Cameroon. We carried out a 10-year retrospective study in the neurosurgical, neurology, pathology, oncology and radiotherapy units of our hospital. Results: We found 150 complete case files accounting for 0.7% of total admissions in the various units. Males accounted for 50.7% of the cases. Children less than 14 years represented 12.7% of cases (n = 19). Primary brain tumors constituted 92% (n = 138). Most patients with primary brain tumors were between 25 and 54 years of age, making up 57% of cases (n = 79). The most prevalent histological type of brain tumor was meningioma (26%, n = 39), followed by astrocytoma (24.7%, n = 37), and pituitary adenomas (18%, n = 27). The majority of cases presented with signs of raised intracranial pressure with headache being the most frequent symptom (88%). Some patients presented with seizures (34%), neurological deficit (13%), visual disturbances (10%), and cognitive disorders (7%). Conclusion: Young adults represent the most affected age group. Meningioma, astrocytoma and pituitary adenomas were the most frequent brain tumors in adults. Further studies are needed to assess the long-term outcome of patients with BTs.