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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.