PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY AND ONCOLOGY SERVICES

Leukemia, brain tumors, neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, lymphoma, and osteosarcoma are some of the most common types of pediatric cancer.

The exact causes of most pediatric cancers are not well understood. Some genetic factors and environmental exposures may play a role, but in many cases, the cause remains unknown.

Symptoms can vary depending on the type of cancer but might include unexplained weight loss, persistent pain, lumps or masses, fatigue, changes in vision, and prolonged fever.

Diagnosis often involves a combination of physical exams, blood tests, imaging (such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans), and sometimes biopsies.

Survival rates vary widely depending on the type of cancer and stage at diagnosis. Advances in treatments have improved survival rates over the years, with some types having high cure rates.

Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplantation. Treatment plans are individualized based on the type and stage of cancer.

Common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, weakened immune system, and long-term effects on growth and development.

Depending on the age at diagnosis and the treatment received, pediatric cancer can impact physical, emotional, and cognitive development. Educational and psychosocial support are important for affected children.

With refinements in diagnostics and advances in therapeutics and supportive care the overall survival of childhood malignancy has increased tremendously over the past few decades. Over 70% children and adolescents with cancer survive 5 or more years from diagnosis in many centres and are effectively cured of the disease. This is however at the cost of increased morbidity in the form of various long/late effects of cancer treatment. Long term side effects are those complications of treatment that occur during therapy and persist even after the treatment is over. Late effects appear months or years after the completion of treatment. It is estimated that a third to half of childhood cancer survivors will experience a late/long term effect of cancer therapy. The complications of cancer therapy are protean and range from impairment in growth and development, neurocognitive/ psychosocial deficits, cardiopulmonary compromise, endocrine dysfunction, GI dysfunction, musculoskeletal sequel, fertility problems, and second malignancies.
Hence it is important for all survivors of childhood cancer to have lifelong annual check-up. The aim of long-term follow-up is to facilitate timely diagnosis and appropriate management of late adverse effects, thereby reducing the frequency of severe complications. Several models of long-term follow-up care have been developed to address this need.  Guidelines for Longterm followup have been laid down by the Children’s Oncology Group, Scottish Intercollegiate Network, United Kingdom Children’s Cancer Study Group (UK CCSG) and the Dutch Children’s Oncology Group (DCOG; Sieswerda et al) and more details may be obtained from their respective websites.

Yes, research is continuously conducted to improve understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric cancers. New therapies and approaches are being developed to enhance outcomes and reduce side effects.

Supporting families can include providing emotional support, offering practical help with daily tasks, raising awareness about childhood cancer, and donating to reputable organizations focused on pediatric cancer research and support.
Remember that specific questions and concerns should always be discussed with medical professionals experienced in pediatric oncology.