Gastrointestinal and hepatic systems

Abstract

Abdominal complaints are one of the most common reasons for outpatient medicine office visits. For the pediatric cancer survivor, it may be more than just a common psychosomatic complaint or attempt to avoid school and warrants careful consideration. Disruptions to the gastrointestinal system from cancer treatment can affect nutritional intake and lead to failure to thrive, chronic pain and hospitalization. The liver, one of the body’s most vital organs, is also susceptible to the long-term and late effects of cancer treatment. In this chapter, we will provide an overview of potential gastrointestinal and hepatic late effects from pediatric cancer treatment with guidelines for screening examinations and specialist referral.