A statistical survey is presented of brain tumors diagnosed in the first year of life (from five Far-Eastern countries) in relation to the racial differences in tumor types, congenital factors, and general clinical features. Of the 307 cases collected, 262 were verified histologically, and astrocytomas comprised 23.3%, medulloblastomas 17.2%, ependymomas 11.1%, choroid plexus papillomas 10.7%, teratomas 8.4%, primitive neuroectodermal tumors 4.2%, meningiomas 2.3%, and others 22.9%. There were statistically significant racial differences in comparison with the worldwide survey done by the International Society for Pediatric Neurosurgery Education Committee (1987) on the same subject. In the Far-Eastern population, medulloblastoma and teratoma were more common (P less than 0.05), whereas astrocytoma was less frequent (P less than 0.01) than reported in the worldwide survey. The malformative factors were suggested in 18 cases in which various associated congenital anomalies were observed. Vascular anomalous lesions, mostly in the extracranial organs, were most common, comprising 61.1% of the associated malformations. Hereditary factors were less commonly demonstrated in these tumors than were anomalies in the major congenital central nervous system. Among the 307 cases, there was one instance (0.3%) of nearly identical tumors occurring in twin brothers. The specific clinical manifestations of brain tumors involving the immature brain were again apparent in this survey, as were the poor survival rates and poor functional prognosis.

Introduction:We assessed whether the communication of potential radiation risks from nuclear medicine examinations to patients, which is required by law, is adequate. Methods: We performed an audit to assess the adequacy of communication to patients, with two targets: (1) they received sufficient information about the potential radiation risks; and (2) they understood the information before they consented to the examination. We aimed at 100% of patients achieving both targets. If they did not, we planned to implement changes to bring our practice in line with these standards. A total of 53 patients undergoing examinations during a randomly selected week were recruited to fill out a questionnaire. Results: The audit showed that the targets were not achieved, with only 45% of the participants (95% confidence interval = 33-59%) reporting that they both received sufficient information and understood the potential risks. A series of changes were implemented, including distribution of a newly designed one-page information pamphlet to all participants, provision of a newly designed one-page reference sheet to the clinical team, and design of a new workflow for radiographers. Another 53 patients were recruited for re-audit, and the effect of the changes was assessed by comparing the results between the audit and re-audit, using the Chi squared test. These changes were associated with statistically significant improvements in both targets from 45% to 100% (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: When patients are provided with an easy-to-understand information pamphlet and the clinical team are instructed to assist patients in understanding the information, the communication targets are achievable.