Management of Acute and Late Endocrine Effects Following Childhood Cancer Treatment

Abstract

Advancements in the treatment of pediatric cancer have led to increased survival rates. The majority of adult survivors of pediatric cancers will develop a chronic disease, including endocrine disorders. The type and prevalence of the acute and late endocrine effects of cancer treatment vary widely by cancer type, treatment, and patient characteristics (age, gender, comorbidities). This chapter will describe the endocrine effects of treatment for childhood cancer both during and after treatment by endocrine system. In addition, we will review the current literature on pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of the endocrine effects commonly seen in survivors of pediatric cancers.