Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
4.9
3.4
Journals
Current Oncology
Special Issues
Quality of Life and Management of Pediatric Cancer
share announcement

Quality of Life and Management of Pediatric Cancer

A special issue of Current Oncology (ISSN 1718-7729). This special issue belongs to the section "Childhood, Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 April 2026) | Viewed by 13142

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Luca Giacomelli

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Polistudium SRL, Milan, Italy
Interests: palliative care; research methodology; consensus approaches; cancer; pediatrics
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Momcilo Jankovic

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Center Maria Letizia Verga, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
Interests: hematological diseases; hematooncological diseases; psychosocial issues; communication
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Worldwide, more than 4 million children suffer from oncological disease. In this setting, pediatric palliative care (PPC) must not be limited to the terminality period, but it should be rather established as early as possible and continue over the disease trajectory, regardless of treatment administration, with the aim to improve the quality of life of patients and their families (see Benini et al, Cancers 2022).

The Special Issue ‘Quality of Life and Management of Pediatric Cancer’ aims at collecting, in a single editorial effort, experiences and well-grounded opinions on the management of pediatric cancers from all over the world. In particular, studies or case reports concerning the early establishment of PPC in the oncology setting would be welcome.

Our audience is multidisciplinary and composed of oncologists, palliative care specialists, nurses and psychologists with an interest in PPC.

You may choose our Joint Special Issue in Cancers.

Dr. Luca Giacomelli
Dr. Momcilo Jankovic
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Current Oncology is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • pediatric palliative care
  • oncology
  • quality of life
  • early management

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Related Special Issue

Published Papers (6 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

13 pages, 242 KB  
Article
The Implementation of a Caregiver Distress Screening Initiative in a Pediatric Oncology Healthcare Setting: A Quality Improvement Project
by Clayton Culp, Christen Long, Angelique Ribieras and Erica H. Sirrine
Curr. Oncol. 2026, 33(5), 252; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol33050252 - 28 Apr 2026
Viewed by 422
Abstract
Background: Parents of children with cancer often experience significant stressors that can heighten distress and impact overall well-being. Despite recommendations supporting distress screening for adult and pediatric patients with cancer, systematic assessment of parent or caregiver distress in pediatric oncology settings remains [...] Read more.
Background: Parents of children with cancer often experience significant stressors that can heighten distress and impact overall well-being. Despite recommendations supporting distress screening for adult and pediatric patients with cancer, systematic assessment of parent or caregiver distress in pediatric oncology settings remains limited. This Quality Improvement initiative aimed to implement routine distress screening for adult caregivers of pediatric patients with brain and solid tumors at our institution. Methods: Using the 18-item CancerSupportSource™-Caregiver (CSS-CG) instrument, our social work team invited eligible caregivers to complete monthly electronic distress screeners while their child was receiving treatment. Automated reports with tailored psychoeducational resources were sent to caregivers upon completion, and social workers received alerts when participants scored at-risk for anxiety, depression, or financial strain. The feasibility of the CSS-CG implementation was assessed via caregiver enrollment and completion rates, and clinician acceptability was evaluated through a post-implementation survey. Results: Of 122 eligible patients, 64 of their caregivers enrolled in the CSS-CG screening platform (52.45%), and 44 (36.06%) completed at least one screener. Of the 44 caregivers who completed the CSS-CG assessment, 59.09% (n = 26) screened positive at least once for risk of anxiety, 54.54% (n = 24) for risk of financial strain, and 59.09% (n = 26) for risk of depression. Among participating social workers, 83% reported that the screener improved their clinical practice, making their sessions more focused and helpful. They also noted that it improved their ability to identify a caregiver’s overall needs. Conclusions: Implementing caregiver distress screening positively impacted social work practice at our institution. Despite variable caregiver enrollment and a few implementation challenges, the findings support the importance and potential benefit of screening for caregiver distress in a pediatric oncology setting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life and Management of Pediatric Cancer)
26 pages, 2031 KB  
Article
Trajectories of Posttraumatic Growth Among Latvian Parents of Children with Cancer: A Mixed Methods Approach
by Inese Lietaviete, Reinis Alksnis and Baiba Martinsone
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(9), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32090486 - 30 Aug 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1753
Abstract
Background: This study explores post-traumatic growth (PTG) among parents of childhood cancer survivors (CCSs), a group often underrepresented in research. Method: A convergent parallel mixed-methods design integrating Bayesian Multilevel Latent Class Analysis and Thematic Analysis was utilized in a longitudinal study involving 58 [...] Read more.
Background: This study explores post-traumatic growth (PTG) among parents of childhood cancer survivors (CCSs), a group often underrepresented in research. Method: A convergent parallel mixed-methods design integrating Bayesian Multilevel Latent Class Analysis and Thematic Analysis was utilized in a longitudinal study involving 58 caregivers (50 mothers, 8 fathers) from the Children’s Clinical University Hospital in Riga. Quantitative data were collected at diagnosis using the Psychosocial Assessment Tool (PAT) and Big Five Inventory-10 (BFI-10). Follow-up assessments post-treatment included the Responses to Stress Questionnaire (RSQ), Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), and the Post-traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI). Qualitative data were collected through structured interviews. Results: A 2-class model distinguished parents with low PTG from those with moderate to high PTG. Change in values, detachment from trivial stressors, and acceptance of life emerged as key indicators of growth. PTG was not significantly correlated with overall post-traumatic stress symptoms, but engagement coping strategies showed a positive association with PTG and personality traits like extraversion and openness. Conclusions: The mixed methods approach revealed sample-specific PTG elements not reflected in standardized tools. Initial perceptions of the cancer diagnosis shaped psychological outcomes, with PTG facilitated by adaptive coping, self-reflection, support, emotional disclosure, and psychological struggle. This study offers the first insights into PTG among Latvian parents of CCSs, a previously unexplored area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life and Management of Pediatric Cancer)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 247 KB  
Article
Artificial Reproductive Technology Use and Family-Building Experiences of Female Adult Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Qualitative Study
by Selena Banser, A. Fuchsia Howard, Sally Thorne and Karen J. Goddard
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(7), 369; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32070369 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1697
Abstract
Purpose: Cancer treatments can result in subfertility or infertility in female adult childhood cancer survivors (ACCSs). While ACCSs may utilize assisted reproductive technology (ART) or other family-building options, the limited evidence describing their experiences remains a hindrance to developing and implementing appropriate patient-centered [...] Read more.
Purpose: Cancer treatments can result in subfertility or infertility in female adult childhood cancer survivors (ACCSs). While ACCSs may utilize assisted reproductive technology (ART) or other family-building options, the limited evidence describing their experiences remains a hindrance to developing and implementing appropriate patient-centered supports. The study’s aim is to describe the challenges female ACCSs experienced while navigating ART and family-building options, to inform improvements in clinical practice in a western Canadian province. Methods: In this qualitative Interpretive Description study, interviews were conducted with 15 female ACCSs and data were analyzed using an interpretive thematic approach and constant comparative techniques. Results: ACCSs’ narratives suggest they experienced five prominent challenges while navigating ART and family-building options, including (1) confronting unexpected, impaired fertility, (2) grieving loss and redefining identity, (3) encountering unsupportive healthcare, (4) exploring alternative paths of adoption and international family-building, and (5) facing financial strain. Conclusions: This exploratory study provides initial insights into the significant and multifaceted challenges female ACCSs experience related to family building and highlights gaps in healthcare services. Further research is warranted to articulate these challenges across contexts and the development and implementation of mitigating approaches. Implications for Cancer Survivors: The integration of comprehensive informational, psychosocial, and financial supports into existing cancer survivor and family-building services is vital to meeting female ACCSs’ unmet needs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life and Management of Pediatric Cancer)

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

26 pages, 1880 KB  
Review
Optimizing the Efficacy–Toxicity Paradigm in Pediatric Oncology: A Narrative Review of Immunotherapy and Survivorship Outcomes
by Zaure Dushimova, Timur Saliev, Aigul Bazarbayeva, Kymbat Karimova, Abay Kussainov and Ildar Fakhradiyev
Curr. Oncol. 2026, 33(5), 298; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol33050298 - 20 May 2026
Viewed by 99
Abstract
Background: Childhood cancer survival now approaches 80% in high-income countries, yet most survivors face lifelong toxicity. This review examines the interplay between treatment efficacy, relapse prevention, and therapy-related complications. Methods: Narrative synthesis of landmark pediatric oncology trials (2000–2026), including AALL1731 (blinatumomab), ELIANA/PLAT-02 (CAR [...] Read more.
Background: Childhood cancer survival now approaches 80% in high-income countries, yet most survivors face lifelong toxicity. This review examines the interplay between treatment efficacy, relapse prevention, and therapy-related complications. Methods: Narrative synthesis of landmark pediatric oncology trials (2000–2026), including AALL1731 (blinatumomab), ELIANA/PLAT-02 (CAR T-cell), and GD2-CART01 (neuroblastoma), with comparative analysis of efficacy and toxicity. Results: In AALL1731, adding blinatumomab to chemotherapy improved 3-year disease-free survival from 87.9% to 96.0% (HR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.27–0.56, p < 0.001), but increased sepsis from 5.1% to 14.8%. Comparison between AALL1731 (front-line blinatumomab) and ELIANA (CAR T-cell in relapsed disease) reveals that earlier immunotherapy deployment yields better outcomes: 96% DFS vs. 48% 3-year EFS, respectively. In GD2-CART01, early use (after 1–2 prior lines) achieved 89% 5-year survival vs. 43% with delayed use (HR = 0.31). Approximately 95% of survivors experience ≥1 late effect, with 60–90% carrying chronic conditions into adulthood. Conclusions: Immunotherapy transforms outcomes, but timing is critical, as earlier deployment dramatically improves survival. Toxicity remains pervasive, requiring systematic mitigation strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life and Management of Pediatric Cancer)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 496 KB  
Review
Neurocognitive and Emotional Outcomes in Childhood Cancer: A Developmental Perspective
by Antonios I. Christou, Georgia Kalfadeli, Stella Tsermentseli and Flora Bacopoulou
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(11), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32110611 - 1 Nov 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4547
Abstract
Background: Childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) are at heightened risk of long-term neurocognitive and emotional difficulties that can affect educational attainment, social participation, and overall quality of life. These outcomes vary across developmental stages and are influenced by treatment modality, age at diagnosis, and [...] Read more.
Background: Childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) are at heightened risk of long-term neurocognitive and emotional difficulties that can affect educational attainment, social participation, and overall quality of life. These outcomes vary across developmental stages and are influenced by treatment modality, age at diagnosis, and central nervous system (CNS) involvement. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science for articles published between January 2000 and June 2024. Search terms included combinations of “childhood cancer survivors,” “neurocognitive outcomes,” “executive function,” “emotional regulation,” and related MeSH terms. Inclusion criteria required peer-reviewed studies assessing CCS using standardized neuropsychological or emotional measures. Results: Evidence indicates persistent deficits in processing speed, working memory, and higher-order executive functions, with additional challenges in attention and memory. Emotional difficulties, including anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal, were prevalent and often co-occurred with cognitive impairments. Developmental timing of cancer and treatment was a key determinant of outcome. Family functioning, school reintegration support, and broader social environments emerged as important moderators of resilience. Conclusions: CCSs face complex, interrelated cognitive and emotional challenges that warrant early identification and ongoing, developmentally tailored intervention. Integrated approaches combining cognitive remediation and psychosocial support appear most effective. Future research should prioritize longitudinal designs, multi-informant assessments, and culturally sensitive frameworks to inform targeted prevention and rehabilitation strategies. Our synthesis highlights that deficits in processing speed and working memory are most pronounced following CNS-directed therapies during early developmental stages, whereas emotional vulnerabilities such as anxiety and social withdrawal often emerge later in adolescence. Interventions combining cognitive remediation, targeted psychosocial support, and structured school reintegration show the strongest evidence for improving adaptive outcomes. Coordinated survivorship care across healthcare, educational, and family systems is essential to sustain developmental recovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life and Management of Pediatric Cancer)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

7 pages, 198 KB  
Perspective
The Ethical Complexity of Medical Decision Making in the Adolescent Oncology Patient
by Ariel Paige Nash, Avis Harden and Rachna Kalapi Sheth
Curr. Oncol. 2024, 31(8), 4158-4164; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol31080310 - 24 Jul 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3336
Abstract
Adolescent Medical Decision Making (aMDM) is frequently discussed but presents a significant challenge in practice, especially in cases of adolescents with life threatening or life limiting illnesses. In this paper, we present a case that explores the importance of aMDM, the difficulties for [...] Read more.
Adolescent Medical Decision Making (aMDM) is frequently discussed but presents a significant challenge in practice, especially in cases of adolescents with life threatening or life limiting illnesses. In this paper, we present a case that explores the importance of aMDM, the difficulties for providers when engaging adolescents in these discussions, and how certain skills may be incorporated into pediatric practice. Literature suggests that patients of this age group, while being legally without capacity, have meaningful insights into their care. However, unless physicians feel comfortable and competent engaging adolescents in a manner that honors their developmentally appropriate understanding of their illness, these insights can be lost. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality of Life and Management of Pediatric Cancer)
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-6
Back to TopTop