Abstract:
Children with cancer are at an increased risk of developing osteonecrosis (ON) and decreased bone mineral density (BMD). In Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, patients aged 10 to 20 years are 10-20 times more likely to develop ON compared to younger children and adults. Although ON and decreased BMD can result in life-altering pain and disability, research regarding the appropriate screening, prevention, and treatment is lacking. To address this gap in knowledge, our institution created a multi-disciplinary team comprising of experts in oncology, radiology, endocrinology, physiatry, physical therapy, orthopedics, and nutrition. The Skeletal Health in Childhood Cancer (SHICC) Team was created in early 2022. The team meets quarterly to discuss clinical guidelines, develop research protocols, and provide education to families and medical staff A subgroup was formed in February 2023 to review individual patients’ imaging and laboratory results to track incidence of ON and decreased BMD and opportunities to optimize bone health. The recommendations of the group are reviewed with the patient and/or guardians in the form of a skeletal health report card that was developed by the SHICC team.
Audience Take Away Notes:
- Participants will demonstrate an understanding on the impact of cancer therapy on skeletal health in children with cancer
- Participants will understand the impact of interdisciplinary care in the management of the skeletal health in childhood cancer
- Participants will be exposed to algorithms to improve the vitamin D surveillance in the clinical setting
