Complications in later life from childhood tumors: Long-term follow-up and transition

T. Langer, P. Kaatsch, D. Steinmann, G. Calaminus

Abstract

© 2016, Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg. Background: Currently, 80 % of all childhood cancer cases are cured. However, results from recent research have raised the question of whether the cured patients are healthy. The risk for long-term complications in this cancer patient cohort depends on diagnosis and treatment modalities. In particular, children with brain tumors often have complications later in life. Results: Long-term follow-up results from pediatric cancer survivors in the USA report that two thirds of all cured patients experience at least one complication within 30 years of the curative cancer treatment. Respective data for pediatric cancer survivors in Germany are not available. Scheduling regular examinations in the children’s hospital in accordance with follow-up guidelines are recommended to rule out relapse or later complications. This concept, however, does not adequately meet the physical and psychological needs of grown or young adult patients. To meet the needs of this growing patient group and maintain high quality in long-term follow-up, special aftercare programs must be developed in which the pediatric oncologist cooperates with specialists in internal medicine and other areas appropriate for the patient. Each patient needs an individualized, risk-adapted (to both disease and treatment) follow-up schedule to ensure early detection of possible later complications. Conclusions: Maintaining health and quality of life in patients of all ages after curative cancer treatment will not only be socially important, but have an economic impact on society in the future.
Original languageEnglish
JournalOnkologe
Volume22
Issue number12
Pages (from-to)970-977
Number of pages8
ISSN0947-8965
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 01.12.2016

Research Areas and Centers

  • Academic Focus: Center for Brain, Behavior and Metabolism (CBBM)

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