Childhood Cancer Flashcards
What are cancers split into?
Haematological
Solid
What is a haematological cancer?
Affects blood, bone marrow and lymph nodes
Leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma
What are solid tumours?
Most commonly in children
- brain tumours
- neuroblastoma
- rhabdomyosarcoma
- wilms’ tumour
- osteosarcoma
Most common cancer in children?
Leukaemia
- acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Rapid proliferation of immature lymphoblasts
Symptoms of ALL?
Breathlessness
Looking pale
Feeling tired
Bruising or bleeding easy for no reason
High temperature or easily picking up infections
Swollen lymph
Irritability
Bone pain
Loss of appetite
Fullness in tummy
Swollen testicles
Management of ALL?
Chemotherapy - pt Immunocompromised
- induction
- consolidation
- maintenance
Stem cell transplant or bone marrow transplant
- chemo and radiotherapy to eliminate host immune system
- transplant of healthy tissue
- immunosuppressed
Oral problems associated with ALL?
Infection risk
Oral and pharyngeal mucositis
Xerostomia
Increased caries rate
Gingival hyperplasia and bleeding gums
ORN or MRONJ
Trismus
What considerations are needed when treating a child with cancer?
Prioritise prevention!!
Time appts around their cancer appts
Aggressive treatment planning with regards to infection risk
Is dental care a priority??
