Oncological Problems In Children
Childhood cancers are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the pediatric population and differ from adult malignancies in terms of their biological, clinical, and epidemiological characteristics. Leukemias, lymphomas, central nervous system tumors, neuroblastoma, and Wilms tumor are among the most common malignancies in children. Advances in diagnosis and treatment, particularly risk-adapted treatment protocols and supportive care practices, have led to significant improvements in survival rates. Early diagnosis is one of the key determinants of treatment success. Symptoms such as prolonged fever, unexplained weight loss, lymphadenopathy, bone pain, neurological findings, and abdominal masses must be carefully evaluated. The diagnostic process includes a comprehensive clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, imaging studies, and histopathological confirmation. The treatment approach is individualized based on tumor type and disease stage, utilizing chemotherapy, surgical treatment, radiation therapy, stem cell transplantation, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. Nursing care is an integral component of the treatment process and encompasses medication administration, symptom management, pain control, nutritional support, infection prevention, family-centered care, and psychosocial support. Additionally, nurses assume significant responsibilities in the areas of oncofertility, long-term follow-up of survivors (survivorship), and palliative care. The management of childhood cancers requires a multidisciplinary approach that integrates current treatment strategies, high-quality nursing care, and long-term follow-up.
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