Malignant tumors in African children: With special reference to malignant lymphoma

Abstract

Summary 1.The incidence and histologic classification of malignant tumors in African children as recorded by the Kampala Cancer Registry from 1952 to 1958 are reported. 2.The infrequency of leukemia in African children, previously observed, is confirmed. 3.Malignant lymphomas are the most common tumors recorded and constituted almost 50 per cent of the total malignant growths in this series. 4.The incidence and distribution of malignant lymphoma as well as a marked reversal of the leukemia to lymphoma ratio suggests a significant difference in the natural history of lymphopoietic tumors in African children. 5.The very frequent and apparant primary origin of lymphoma in the jaw indicates an unusual affinity and suggests a local causative factor.