Pediatric Oncology
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, the whole family is affected. To guide you through this stressful time, Richmond University Medical Center offers pediatric oncology services from diagnosis to treatment and recovery. Our dedicated team, led by Mario Peichev, M.D., includes expert oncologists, nurses, technologists, pharmacists, therapists and tumor registrars working with the latest technology and treatments available. Learn more about our pediatric oncology services and how we can offer peace of mind and the highest standard of care right here in Staten Island.
Pediatric Cancer Diagnosis
To create a treatment plan for your child, our doctors will thoroughly assess his or her health with advanced diagnostic tools. This allows our team to identify the most effective approach with regard to a patient’s specific cancer type, overall health and other needs. Some of the tools we use to provide a comprehensive diagnosis include:
- MRI: This digital imaging technology helps oncologists evaluate the size and location of a possible tumor. Patients ingest a special dye that is safe for consumption and allows magnetic fields to produce a clear view of the affected area.
- PET scan: During a PET scan, cancer is tracked throughout the body using an injected substance that is absorbed by affected cells. This allows doctors to see where and how many cancer cells are present throughout the body as a whole.
- CAT scan: In this test, X-rays are taken from all angles surrounding the body. These images are then used to create a three-dimensional view that allows a tumor to be examined from multiple perspectives. This technique can also help accurately assess a tumor’s size.
Patients will also undergo blood work and other laboratory tests to provide our medical team with a broader understanding of their condition. With all this data in hand, doctors can provide the most accurate diagnosis possible.
Available Treatments
After your child has received a diagnosis, it is time to start treatment. With the latest treatments in the field available, our oncologists can deliver exceptional care that helps directly target the cancer. The main methods we use to treat cancer are:
- Radiation therapy: This method uses a linear accelerator to create X-rays that target the area where the tumor is located to remove cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: In this treatment, cancer-fighting drugs are injected and spread throughout the body to destroy any cancer cells. Because many childhood cancers grow quickly, chemotherapy can be very effective in their treatment.
In some cases, cancer may also be treated with surgery to remove tumors and affected tissues. Your child’s medical team will collaborate to determine which treatments will be most effective based on his or her diagnosis.
Family Care & Support Program
When a child undergoes treatment for cancer, his or her parents and siblings can experience significant emotional turmoil and stress. To help you and your family navigate this challenging time, Richmond University Medical Center offers a family support program. A team of licensed therapists and social workers are available to provide guidance and support when it is needed most.
To take advantage of this program, please request a referral from your primary doctor or your child’s oncology team. You may also schedule an appointment directly by contacting the Family Care & Support Coordinator at (718)-818-5302. A Spanish-speaking consultant is available upon request.
Expert Care for Pediatric Cancer
Going through cancer diagnosis and treatment with your child is a difficult process. Nevertheless, rest assured that at Richmond University Medical Center, your family has access to a collaborative team of pediatric oncology experts and the latest developments in the field. To learn more about treatment for pediatric cancer, contact the Center for Cancer Care by calling (844)-934-CARE.
