Pediatric hematology/oncology is a pediatric specialty that cares for cancer and blood disorders in children. This specialty integrates oncology (care for cancer) and hematology (care for blood conditions). Pediatric hematologists/oncologists diagnose and treat children with a wide variety of cancer and blood-related conditions, ranging from sickle cell disease to leukemia. They are physicians with additional training in pediatrics and hematology/oncology. Pediatric hematologists/oncologists practice in hospitals and in cancer and blood disease clinics. Conditions a pediatric hematologist/oncologist may treat include:
Pediatric hematology/oncology treatments can include oral medications such as iron supplements for anemia, or hydroxyurea medicine to prevent cancer cell growth and sickle-shaped blood cell formation. Other treatments for blood disorders that pediatric hematologists/oncologists might prescribe include:
When not working directly with patients and caregivers, pediatric hematologists/oncologists may perform research to advance understanding and knowledge of pediatric cancers and blood disorders. A pediatric hematologist/oncologist may collaborate with pediatric surgeons, transplant specialists, pathologists, pediatric psychiatrists, dietitians, pediatric nurse practitioners, child-life specialists, and other medical professionals to provide comprehensive care.