Guidance of nutritional support in critically ill children with cancer

Abstract

This paper is a review of fundamental, up to date concepts of nutritional support for critically ill children with cancer. The aim of the text is to discuss the nutritional and metabolic changes caused by their condition, as well as indications and recommendations, contraindications and complications of nutritional support (enteral and parenteral nutrition) in cancer patients. The paper objectively shows the practical application of scientific knowledge and gives guidance to improve decisions about nutritional support in clinical practice. Finally, it is concluded there is a need to encourage research on support therapy, such as for the treatment of infections and for intensive nutritional and metabolic support, so as to increase the chances of curing children and adolescents with cancer.