Factors Impeding the Timely Pathologic Diagnosis of Malignant Small Round Blue Cell Tumors in a Pediatric Tertiary Care Center in the Philippines: Identifying Opportunities to Optimize Pediatric Cancer Management

Key Points

• To explore the factors causing delays in the pathologic diagnosis of malignant small round blue cell tumors (PSRBCTs).
• Analyzed turnaround times (TAT) for diagnoses in a pediatric care center.
• Identified deficiencies related to access to ancillary tests and specialized expertise.
• Evaluated opportunities for improving diagnostic processes.
• Prolonged turnaround times reflect systemic issues in the diagnostic process.
• Limited access to necessary tests contributes significantly to delays.
• There are clear opportunities for enhancing pediatric cancer care in the institution.