[Pediatric neuro-oncology in French-speaking Africa: Current status and challenges].
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OBJECTIVE: There is limited information concerning pediatric neuro-oncology in French-speaking Africa. The aim of this work was to assess the status of this specialty in member institutions of the Franco-African Group of Pediatric Oncology (GFAOP). METHODS: Data pertaining to pediatric brain tumors in the GFAOP registry were analyzed. A short questionnaire was sent to the GFAOP centers to collect information regarding the neuro-oncology activity. Recordings and minutes of the 17 teleconferences that took place between 01/2023 and 03/2025 were reviewed and analyzed. RESULTS: Only 331 patients were registered between 2016 and 2025. This suggests a considerable gap in terms of diagnosis. Most units manage between one and ten patients annually, with low-grade glioma and medulloblastoma being the most common tumors. In most units, the costs of treatment are borne by families. The review of the minutes of the teleconferences highlights important gaps in knowledge and obvious deficiencies in communication between the different teams involved. CONCLUSIONS: This work highlights the challenges associated with the development of pediatric neuro-oncology in French-speaking Africa. The implementation of multidisciplinary programs is a critical step to improve the care of children with brain tumors.