Pediatric oncology is a specialized field of medicine dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and managing cancer in children. This discipline has witnessed remarkable advancements, making it one of the most successful areas of medical progress in recent times. Pediatric oncologists are healthcare professionals equipped with the expertise to care for children with cancer, providing comprehensive support from diagnosis through treatment and into long-term follow-up or palliative care. Their role extends beyond medical treatment to include emotional and psychological support for both the children and their families.
Cancer staging helps determine the extent of cancer's spread. Stages range from 1 to 4, with lower numbers indicating more contained tumors and higher numbers indicating more advanced cancer.
Identifying pediatric cancer early is crucial for effective treatment. Common signs and symptoms include:
Pediatric oncologists employ a variety of diagnostic procedures to confirm or rule out cancer. These include:
Complete blood count (CBC) to assess levels of blood cells.
A small piece of tumor tissue is examined for cancer cells.
A sample of fluid surrounding the spine is collected for analysis.
Techniques like MRI provide detailed images of bones, tissues, and organs.
Several types of cancer commonly affect children, including:
Treatment strategies for pediatric cancer depend on the type and stage of cancer and often involve multiple modalities:
