Chemotherapy in Children

 

Chemotherapy in children is given in the same manner as they do in adults and they also act in the same manner. The cells undergo a definite life cycle, perform defined functions, grow by controlled cell division and die. Certain mutation in oncogenes genes present in every normal cell provokes abrupt cellular division leading to cancer. The cancer cells grow abnormally in the body and multiply at a much faster rate than the normal cells. Chemotherapy drugs prevent the growth of cells, so as the cells cannot multiply, the die out eventually. However, these chemotherapy drugs also have several side effects in children. One rare but possible cause of cancer in childhood might account for genetic reason like Down Syndrome etc.

The most commonly occurring cancer in childhood includes:

  1. Leukemia: Blood Cancer
  2. Lymphoma: Cancer in Lymphatic system
  3. Brain Cancer
  4. Osteosarcoma: Bone Cancer

Doctors often misinterpret symptoms of childhood cancer like swollen tonsils, fever, anemia and bruises as an indication of general infection and thus in most cases it goes undetected. Once the cancer is diagnosed parents must unfailingly seek medical advice for prompt treatment and cure.

Children Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses anti cancer drugs to treat diffused cancer cells which has become metastatic i.e. have traveled to a distinct location from the actual area of infliction. Children could be given an infusion intravenously or an oral pill. Occasionally, these are given intrathecally i.e. into the spinal fluid. The Chemotherapy drugs enter the blood stream and kill the cancer cells. Often, bone marrow transplantation is wise decision post chemotherapy in patients undergoing leukemia  chemotherapy. These are the spongy tissues present in hollow bones which form blood cells. Doctors may perhaps conduct bone marrow transplantation post chemotherapy or infiltrate stem cells into the blood stream by injecting it as a drip along the central line on the arm. Stem cells profusion or bone marrow transplantation would form the new and healthy blood cells replacing the depleted ones thus narrowing down any recurrence of cancer.

Side Effects of Chemotherapy in Children:

Chemotherapy drugs act as a weapon to destroy cancer cells but unfortunately these chemicals fail to discriminate between cancer cells and normal cells, thus impairing normal cells to carry on their regular function. Some common side effects caused due to chemotherapy during childhood includes:

DDistinct from an adulthood childhood cancer pose much severe harm from exhibiting chemotherapy treatment as a child’s body is in a growing stage. Some long term harms of chemotherapy on a child pertains to stunt growth, damaged internal organs, delayed mental development and impaired reproductive system. There are many studies being conducting on the long term effects of chemotherapy in children. They should also take very prone to have heart problems, stroke, joint problems, premature menopause and other chronic ailments at a younger age. Studies indicate that instead of monitoring the health of these kids in their 30s, they should get tests done in their 20s.  However, these side effects can be prevented, if the health of these patients is managed in a proper manner.

Coping With Childhood Cancer

Unlike adults children lack enough cognition of cancer they often consider this disease as their fault. Excessive medication and its after effect could distress a child. Parents should take care of their emotional well being and could also refer to a psychologist to make things understandable to their child. They should be very supportive towards their kids. Unlike adults, children may be scared of needles and have less tolerance for pain. Chemotherapy in children can cure most of the patients. However, the patients and their family should be aware of the various long term side effects and seek medical advice to manage them.