Practical Algorithms in Pediatric Hematology and Oncology

Book excerpt: This is the only comprehensive collection of algorithms which exclusively addresses hematologic and oncologic problems affecting neonates, children and adolescents. Examining clinical problems which challenge the pediatrician, general practitioner and family practice physician, each algorithm utilizes a concise, step-by-step approach based upon clues from the history, physical examination and laboratory studies. The algorithms addressing differential diagnosis clearly distinguish between the most common etiologies, those that are less frequent, and finally some that are rare but important to recognize. The 51 topics include evaluation of anemia, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, hemolytic anemia, the bleeding child, thrombocytopenia and other platelet disorders, hemophilia, leukocyte disorders, leukemias, lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, approaches to mass lesions in the mediastinum, abdomen, pelvis, bones and soft tissues as well as approaches to potential emergencies such as tumor lysis and superior vena cava syndromes. The oncology topics emphasize diagnostic approach and management of complications, and not the details of chemotherapy. All algorithms are presented with a page of explanatory notes and a list of selected reading. Pediatricians, family physicians and general practitioners will find this book very helpful in managing problems in their practices. Trainees in pediatric hematology will find it a useful tool in developing approaches to solve the problems they will encounter, and pediatric hematologists/oncologists will find it useful as a teaching tool.