Paediatrics
The rarity and complexity of child cancer provides a real challenge in delivering optimal care. Treatment modalities for paediatric cancer are often prolonged and complicated and have a narrow therapeutic index. Side effects of systemic therapy for treating cancer can be more severe for children, including acute organ toxicities, prolonged immunodeficiency and infection.
As a result of these complexities, high-quality evidence-based care is required not only to deliver therapy and supportive care but is essential in the diagnosis phase, post-treatment surveillance and long-term follow-up care. Children with sarcoma must have their treatment delivered by a statewide referral centre for paediatric oncology. Consider shared care for surveillance once treatment is completed. Children’s cancer services actively participate in clinical trials as a way of participating in research and improving outcomes for children.