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71: Rehabilitation of the Pediatric Cancer Patient

DOI:

10.1891/9780826121646.0071

Authors

  • Pruitt, David William
  • Bolikal, Priya

Abstract

The comprehensive rehabilitation of children with cancer requires an interdisciplinary team approach across the continuum of care. Childhood cancers account for approximately 1% of all cancers diagnosed in the United States each year. The type of treatment for childhood cancer can include any combination of chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and biologic therapies depending upon many factors including tumor pathology, genetics, and staging. Pediatric rehabilitation is an important component in minimizing the adverse effects and maximizing the return of independence and function in these children and young adults. In pediatric rehabilitation, prescriptions for therapy programs, adaptive equipment, orthoses, and prostheses must be appropriate to the age and the developmental level of the child and include considerations related to ongoing growth and development. The chapter discusses specific childhood cancers like leukemia, central nervous system tumors, bone sarcomas its and rehabilitation issues.