Diagnostic Challenges in Hematological Malignancies in Nigeria and their Impact on Treatment Outcome

Abstract

Haematological malignancy constitutes a major public health disease burden globally due to the degree of mortality and morbidity they cause. Aim: This review was aimed at exploring and reporting some of the difficulties that hinder early/accurate diagnosis and management of haematological malignancies in Nigeria emphasizing a single centre experience and to further highlight how they affect treatment outcome. Methodology: Google scholar, Pubmed and African Journals online sites were explored in July 2024. Relevant articles were selected. The most senior consultant haematologist in the single centre in South South Nigeria being studied was interviewed and account was documented. Results: The difficulties encountered in the prompt/proper diagnosis and management of haematological malignancies reported by the studies and the clinician interviewed include, visiting orthopaedic and other specialists as well as herbalists and spiritualists  for several months before reporting to the haematology clinic, mis – and/or missed diagnosis due to inadequate diagnostic equipment and techniques like use of morphological studies alone for Rowmanawsky stained blood picture examination and histological diagnosis without cytogenetics, immunophenotyping, polymerase chain reaction fluorescent insitu hybridization, poverty, cultural and religious beliefs. Poor treatment outcome as a result of these challenges were also reported. Conclusion: Enlightenment campaigns on the benefits of early diagnosis and prompt presentation to the hospital should be encouraged. Provision of up-to-date advanced technologies for early/accurate diagnosis and sub classification of haematologiacl malignancies should be made in main health facilities across the country. Diagnosis and treatment of haematological malignancies should be built into the National Health Insurance scheme to strengthen the system in this regard.