Accompanying your child for cancer diagnosis or treatment can be heartbreaking. At such times, the right diagnosis and treatment plan make all the difference to a child’s recovery journey. This is a challenge that needs a specialised team of paediatric haematology oncologists because there are hundreds of types of blood cancers.

Paediatric haematology oncology is a super specialisation that involves treating young patients who have conditions such as leukaemia, neuroblastoma, bone tumours, brain tumours, and lymph node cancer. The causes of childhood cancer are largely unknown. What is reassuring is that children’s bodies tend to respond well to treatment, as they generally do not have other conditions like many adults with cancer. Children feel more comfortable in a friendly and caring environment, which helps their treatment.

We understand that the path to fighting cancer is tough. Even more so when a child has been diagnosed with this illness. At Narayana Health’s Paediatric Haematology Oncology Department, a specialized team supports you throughout your recovery journey.

State-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge equipment, and experienced paediatric oncologists come together at Narayana Health to increase the chances of children returning home and enjoying their childhood.

Paediatric Haemato Oncology Care

With over two decades of healthcare experience, our Paediatric Haemato Oncology services provide exceptional cancer care for children. Accredited both nationally and internationally, we put your child's health first by using advanced equipment and following customised treatment plans, in a caring environment. Each year, we serve thousands of young patients. Our proven track record and strong infection control policies ensure their safety. Our dedication to your child's complete recovery is shown in our expertise in more than 110 specialisations. Narayana Health is recognised by the Joint Commission International (JCI) and built on a strong tradition of global recognition.

Types of Treatments in Paediatric Haemato Oncology

Children’s bodies are different. They have less developed organ systems and experience different emotions than adults. Our Paediatric Haemato Oncology Department has vast experience in children’s unique medical needs. Apart from their expertise in treating cancer, they know how to make children feel relaxed and cooperative.

Here are some treatment options that our paediatric oncologists may suggest:

Chemotherapy

This treatment, which targets and kills aberrant blood cells, can be administered in different ways, depending on the type of cancer and drug being used. It may be orally (tablet or liquid) or intravenously (goes directly into the bloodstream). Both can be done as outpatient procedures. The frequency depends on the severity of the child’s condition.

While chemotherapy kills the cancer cells, it can also damage healthy cells, leading to adverse side effects, such as:

Side effects vary from child to child depending on the type of cancer they have, the dose of chemotherapy they have and the type of treatment regime that receive.
Nausea and vomiting: Paediatric oncologists may prescribe anti-sickness medicines to minimise these effects.
Hair loss: Although this happens during the treatment, hair usually grows back afterwards.
Bone marrow suppression: This can lower red blood cells, resulting in anaemia, and a fall in white blood cells, making a child more prone to infections.

Stem Cell Transplant

Also called bone marrow transplant, this can be a lifesaving treatment option. A stem cell transplant replaces unhealthy red blood cells with healthy ones. Stem cells are produced in our bone marrow and mature to become red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. These stem cells may be taken from the child’s own body or from a donor.

A stem cell or bone marrow transplant is typically done after some rounds of chemotherapy to remove cancer cells and make way for the new stem cells. This treatment option is most commonly used for blood cancers like leukaemia in children.

The side effects include:
Diarrhoea
Weight loss
Soreness in the mouth
Skin rashes
Shortness of breath

Targeted Therapy

Medical advancements have focused on precision, such that the cancer cells can be destroyed with minimal impact on healthy cells. Targeted therapy, which is used to treat various paediatric cancers, involves administering drugs through a drip, an injection or tablets, and can be an outpatient procedure. The paediatric haematology oncologist may recommend targeted therapy alone or as part of a treatment plan that includes chemotherapy and surgery. Rapid progress is being made in developing and testing targeted therapy drugs for different childhood cancers.

The side effects include:

Allergic reactions
Nausea and vomiting
Skin rashes

Immunotherapy

This treatment supports the body's immune system to fight cancer cells in the blood. Immunotherapy has shown promise in childhood and has no damaging long-term side effects. It may be administered intravenously, orally (tablet or liquid) or topically (applied on the skin).

The most common side effects are:

Fever
Nausea and vomiting
Muscle aches and headaches
Skin rashes

Blood Transfusion

Your child may need blood components, such as red blood cells (to carry oxygen to the lungs), white blood cells (to fight infections) or platelets (help the blood clot to stop bleeding). Paediatric oncologists may suggest blood transfusions to help your child with symptoms.

The most common side effects of blood transfusion are:

Fever
Allergic reaction

We ensure that you and your child receive support from our paediatric oncologists at every stage. Experts at our Paediatric Haemato Oncology Department communicate with parents to explain the cancer diagnosis and the reasons for choosing the treatment method(s). They help you understand the advantages and risks.

Recovery and Post-Treatment Care

Hospital Stay: We continuously monitor your child's development while they're in the hospital. Our team of specialised paediatric haematology oncologists and trained nurses give children all the attention they need as their body adjusts to the treatment.
Follow-up Appointments: Regular post-treatment checkups are critical for tracking improvement and swiftly resolving any issues.
Lifestyle Modifications: We assist you with information on easy lifestyle changes that can promote your child's healing and general well-being.

Coping Strategies

Having a child who is being treated for cancer can be overwhelming. During such times, getting the support you need is equally important as your child’s treatment.

Emotional Support: We understand that cancer can be an emotional strain and are there to provide you support. By recognising such emotional issues and offering a listening ear as well as expert advice, we help you and your child build emotional strength.
Education Resources: You may want to gain a deeper understanding of your child's condition as well as the treatment suggested, its side effects, and the recovery journey ahead. We are here to answer any questions you may have.

When you visit the Paediatric Haemato Oncology Department at Narayana Health, you get access to a team of specialists who are dedicated to accurately diagnosing your child and providing the best treatment options. We have the latest medical equipment and vast experience in childhood cancer. All our efforts are focused on ensuring children go back to their homes and enjoy their childhood.