Pediatric Oncologists - Bethesda, MD

What is Pediatric Hematology/Oncology?

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:

Bone and soft tissue sarcoma
Solid tumors
Leukemia (cancer of the blood cells)
Lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system)
Sickle cell disease, a genetic condition that inhibits red blood cells from transporting oxygen
Hemophilia, a genetic condition where blood does not clot, resulting in excessive bleeding
Anemia
Thalassemia, a genetic condition that reduces the amount of red blood cells and hemoglobin
Red cell aplasia, a condition that reduces the amount of red blood cells produced by bone marrow

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:

Bone marrow and blood transplants
Blood transfusions
Pain management, such as pain medication, pediatric physical therapy, and psychological care
Stem cell transplantation, a procedure where healthy stem cells are transplanted to replace patient's stem cells
Immunotherapy (treatments that enhance or alter children's immunity to attack cancer cells)
Emotional support and social outreach, such as group activities for patients or therapy sessions

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.