Detection and Treatment of Endocrine Abnormalities in Childhood Cancer Survivors

Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute Of Child Health & Human Development

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

Since the start of the protocol, we have enrolled 25 survivors of childhood cancer. In collaboration with the Children's National Medical Center Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders of Northern Virginia in Fairfax, I have been providing endocrine care through the bi-monthly multidisciplinary late effects clinic for childhood cancer survivors. This also allows our fellows and rotating medical students an opportunity to learn how to best manage these patients. I participated in the 11th International Conference on Long-Term Complications of Treatment of Children and Adolescents for Cancer through St. Jude Children's research hospital, learning recent developments in research and forming collaborations. We continue to collect data on each patient through our secure electronic database regarding their cancer treatment record;all participants are invited to complete a child health questionnaire evaluating quality of life. Each patient undergoes an individualized screening and counseling program, with careful review of the following endocrine systems: growth, pituitary and hypothalamic function, thyroid function, ovary and testicular function, bone health, risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. We are studying novel markers to assess ovarian function in women with a history of exposure to alkylating agents or radiation. In addition, out of this project, a number of collaborative studies have arisen related to patients with active malignancies and their endocrine abnormalities.