Kindonkologie

Kindonkologie refers to the field of medical science that specializes in diagnosing, treating, and researching cancer in children and adolescents. It encompasses the entire spectrum of pediatric oncology, from rare primary tumors to frequently occurring malignancies such as leukemia, brain tumors, and sarcomas. Because children’s bodies and immune systems differ significantly from those of adults, the treatment protocols, side‑effect profiles, and long‑term care strategies in kindonkologie are distinct.

Key diseases addressed in kindonkologie include acute lymphoblastic leukemia, central nervous system tumors such as medulloblastoma, and solid tumors like osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma. Diagnosis relies on imaging techniques (MRI, CT, PET), laboratory studies (blood counts, bone marrow aspirates), and histopathological examination of biopsied tissue. Genetic and molecular profiling increasingly guide therapy decisions, leading to more personalized treatment plans.

Standard therapeutic approaches combine multi‑agent chemotherapy, targeted therapies, radiation, and sometimes surgery or stem‑cell transplantation. The Pediatric Oncology Group of the International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP) and the Children's Oncology Group (COG) develop evidence‑based protocols that are regularly updated. Supportive care for patients and families focuses on symptom management, nutritional support, psychosocial counseling, and transition to adult care systems.

Epidemiologically, pediatric cancers constitute about 1% of all new cancer cases in most countries but represent a major public health challenge because of the potentially severe impact on growth and development. Recent advances in immunotherapy, such as CAR‑T cell therapy, have improved outcomes for refractory cases. Ongoing clinical trials aim to further reduce toxicity while maintaining efficacy, extending studies into novel drug combinations and maintenance regimens. Research also examines long‑term survivorship issues, including secondary malignancies, fertility, and neurocognitive effects, underscoring the importance of multidisciplinary follow‑up and survivorship programs in kindonkologie.