Tag: medicine
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Pericardial Effusion and Tamponade
Pericardial involvement in patients with malignancy is common. Widespread use of non-invasive diagnostic techniques, such as echocardiography and computed tomography (CT) scanning, has increased awareness of this diagnosis. The mere presence of pericardial effusion does not necessarily imply pericardial infiltration by malignant cells. Pericardial malignancy is often asymptomatic. It is observed on chest radiography performed…
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Superior Mediastinum Syndrome
Children presenting with an anterior mediastinal mass pose a significant haemato-oncological emergency. This subset of patients is at risk of encountering severe and potentially life-threatening complications either upon presentation or during sedation/general anaesthesia. These complications typically arise due to extrinsic compression of the airway, obstruction of venous return, or impediment to cardiac output. Fortunately, with…
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Gastro-Intestinal Obstruction
GI tract obstruction, pseudo-obstruction and ileus are infrequent entities in children with cancer. Although GI obstruction from primary cancer is rare in children, it is the initial symptom of Burkitt’s lymphoma in 15% to 25% of abdominal localizations. This may be suspected in cases of intussusception in older children or its recurrence; surgical intervention is…
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Management of Electrolytes
The management of fluid and electrolyte imbalances is a crucial aspect of caring for pediatric oncology patients. While certain issues are unique to patients with malignancies, their treatment adheres to the general principles of paediatrics. Causes of electrolyte imbalance Pediatric oncology patients are at high risk of developing fluid balance abnormalities: Hyponatremia Definition Na <…
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Specific Infections
In pediatric oncology, managing infections like varicella (chickenpox) and measles is crucial due to the patients’ compromised immune systems. Prevention strategies are paramount and include hygiene measures, isolation protocols, and vaccinations. Treatment is tailored to the specific infection and the patient’s immunological status, often involving antiviral, antibacterial, or antifungal agents, and supportive care. Monitoring for…
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Infection in Immunocompromised Patients
Patients with cancer are at increased risk of infection as a result of their disease and/or its treatment. Febrile neutropenia is a medical emergency requiring urgent investigation and the administration of intravenous empirical antibiotic therapy within 1-2 hours. Aggressive use of inpatient intravenous antibiotic therapy has reduced morbidity and mortality rates and reduced the need for…