A multidisciplinary review of nutrition considerations in the pediatric oncology population: a perspective from children's oncology group

Nutr Clin Pract. 2005 Aug;20(4):377-93. doi: 10.1177/0115426505020004377.

Abstract

Over the past few decades, great progress has been made in the survival rates of childhood cancer. As survival rates have improved, there has been an increased focus on supportive care. Nutrition is a supportive-care modality that has been associated with improved tolerance to chemotherapy, improved survival, increased quality of life, and decreased risk of infection in children undergoing anticancer therapy. Guidelines and assessment criteria have been proposed for the nutrition management of a child with cancer; however, there is no consistent use of criteria among institutions treating children with cancer. This review will present the current evidence and standards of practice incorporating aspects of nutrition, nursing, pharmacology, and psychosocial challenges to consider in the nutrition management of a child with cancer. Recommendations for clinical practice are presented.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Cachexia / etiology
  • Cachexia / therapy
  • Child
  • Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms* / metabolism
  • Neoplasms* / physiopathology
  • Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Nutritional Requirements*
  • Nutritional Support / methods*
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Survival Analysis