Long-term follow-up of survivors of childhood cancer.
OBJECTIVE
This study was designed to improve the long-term follow-up of childhood cancer survivors by developing standard monitoring for adverse effects; Providing concise treatment summaries for each patient and identifying already existing adverse effects; Determining patient risks for long-term adverse effects; and providing individualized 10-year of plans for follow-up.


METHODS
A retrospective chart review of long-term childhood cancer survivors followed by the institution's pediatric oncologists was performed. Criteria for review included being at least 5 years from diagnosis and 2 years off chemotherapy. Patients are followed annually by the pediatric oncologists.


RESULTS
At the time of review, there were 26 long-term survivors of childhood cancers enrolled at the clinic. Their charts have been reviewed and treatment summaries formulated. Fifty-four adverse effects have been detected. 74% of the patients have long-term adverse effects from receiving cancer therapy. The most common were growth hormone deficiency, hypothyroidism, seizures, and hearing loss. Ten year follow-up plans have been devised for each patient.


CONCLUSIONS
The presence of long-term adverse effects is common in childhood cancer survivors. The pediatrician is pivotal in helping assure their patients are receiving adequate follow-up to detect these complications as well as assisting in the transition to care as an adult.
Condren
Michelle
M
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Pharmacy, USA. michelle.condren@ttuhsc.edu
Lubsch
Lisa
L
Vats
Trib S
TS
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D017741:Survivors