Accuracy of germ cell tumor histology and stage within a Canadian cancer registry
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5489/cuaj.8030Keywords:
Germ Cell Tumor, Canadian Cancer RegistryAbstract
INTRODUCTION: Cancer registries are the mainstay for Canadian population-based cancer statistics. Data are collected in provincial and territorial registries, including the Nova Scotia Cancer Registry (NSCR). The goal of this study was to determine the accuracy of NSCR data for germ cell tumors (GCT).
METHODS: This analysis included all NSCR patients diagnosed with GCT from 2006–2015. The date and method of diagnosis, primary site, histology, and stage were recorded from the NSCR and compared to each patient’s chart. Any discrepancies between the two sources were reviewed and reasons behind the discrepancies recorded.
RESULTS: A total of 229 patients made up the study cohort. Using NSCR data, 57.6% had seminoma, 34.5% non-seminoma (NSGCT), and 7.9% other. Discrepancies in pathology were noted in 16 patients (7.0%). Using NSCR staging data (available in 185 cases), 71.9% had stage I, 12.4% stage II, 11.9% stage III, and 3.8% other. Discrepancies in stage were noted in 32 patients (17.3%) with NSCR data downstaging eight patients (4.3%) and upstaging 21 patients (11.4%). The site of the primary GCT was discrepant in 12 patients (5.2%). The date of diagnosis was accurate within one week for all patients except one.
CONCLUSIONS: Higher-level NSCR data, such as date of diagnosis and overall pathological diagnosis, appear relatively accurate; however, there are inaccuracies in histological subtype and stage. This study raises awareness of these gaps and highlights key areas for improvement in educating registry personnel who interpret and enter data about the uniqueness of GCT pathology, staging, and interpretation of tumor markers.
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