The normal range for most hematologic parameters in infancy and childhood is different from that in adults. Dramatic changes occur during the first few weeks of life. The recognition of these differences in the pediatric age-group prevents unnecessary medical and…
Introduction Blood banking and transfusion medicine are often interchangeable terms for the medical practice of blood product procurement, storage, and administration. It also includes the science of immunohematology, blood component manipulation, and outlining of clinical transfusion guidelines. Hematologic pathologies in…
Time of diagnosis A diagnosis of childhood cancer is an acute traumatic event for a family. Many families recall the conversation confirming diagnosis as a turning point in their lives. This can occur unexpectedly or after months of unexplained symptoms.…
As detailed in the Introduction to this book, the last 60 years have been witness to truly remarkable progress in the treatment of childhood cancer. With current therapies, over 80% of children diagnosed with cancer in the United States can…
The increasing intensity of chemotherapy has improved pediatric oncology outcomes concomitant with the recognition and augmentation of supportive care practices. Prophylaxis and treatment of infection remains the cornerstone of supportive care along with transfusion for chemotherapy-induced cytopenias (see Chapter 35…
Survival in children with cancer has increased dramatically during the last five decades. This progress is due not only to advances in therapy but also to advances in supportive care and an improved ability to manage life-threatening complications. Oncologic emergencies…
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is an accepted treatment of choice for a variety of malignant and nonmalignant disorders. Tables 30.1 and 30.2 list indications for allogeneic and autologous HSCT. Most allogeneic transplants perform.ed in patients <20 years old are…
Primary hepatic neoplasms are rare and account for only 1–2% of all childhood cancers. Hepatoblastoma accounts for approximately two-thirds of pediatric liver tumors. Hepatoblastoma and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) constitute the two most common malignancies that arise de novo in the…
This chapter will review extracranial germ cell tumors (GCTs). Please see Chapter 22 , Central nervous system tumors, for a discussion of intracranial GCTs. Epidemiology Tumors of germ cell origin display a bimodal distribution, with a peak seen in young…
Retinoblastoma (RB) is a malignant tumor of the embryonic retina, likely arising from a cone photoreceptor precursor cell. It is a threat to both life and vision. RB affects young children, usually under the age of 5 years. Tumors may…