Leukemia
Leukemia, the most common cancer in children, affects the blood and bone marrow, leading to the production of abnormal blood cells. Treatment strategies include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and bone marrow transplantation, carefully adjusted to minimize side effects and protect growing bodies. Pediatric oncologists, alongside a multidisciplinary team, provide comprehensive care, ensuring children receive the most effective, age-appropriate treatments while supporting their physical and emotional well-being through innovative therapies and supportive care designed to maintain a child’s quality of life.
Brain Tumors
Brain tumors in children vary significantly from those in adults, requiring specialized approaches to treatment that consider the developing brain. Surgical removal, when possible, is often the first step, followed by radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy, depending on the tumor type and location. Pediatric oncologists work closely with neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists to design treatments that maximize efficacy while minimizing long-term cognitive and developmental impacts, emphasizing the preservation of neurological function and quality of life for pediatric patients.
Lymphomas
Lymphomas, including Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, represent a diverse group of cancers affecting the lymphatic system. Treatment typically involves chemotherapy, with the addition of radiation therapy or immunotherapy in certain cases. Pediatric oncologists tailor therapy to the specific type of lymphoma, considering factors such as stage and aggressiveness, to achieve the best outcomes while focusing on reducing treatment-related toxicities and preserving the child’s growth and development, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to care that includes supportive services for the child and family.
Solid Tumors
Solid tumors, such as neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, and sarcomas, require a coordinated treatment approach that may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Pediatric oncologists assess each tumor’s characteristics to determine the most effective treatment plan, often participating in clinical trials to access new therapies. The goal is to not only treat the cancer effectively but also to manage the side effects of treatment and support the child’s overall health, integrating rehabilitation, nutritional support, and psychological services to support recovery and long-term well-being.
Supportive Care and Survivorship
Supportive care addresses the management of treatment side effects and the enhancement of life quality for children with cancer. Survivorship programs focus on the needs of children who have completed treatment, monitoring for late effects and providing ongoing health and developmental assessments. Pediatric oncologists and a dedicated care team offer support for physical, emotional, and social challenges during and after cancer treatment, emphasizing the importance of holistic care that supports the child’s return to everyday activities and helps them thrive in survivorship.