Critically evaluate a specific issue related to the management of Essay

Critically evaluate a specific issue related to the management of paediatric patients with a systemic malignancy - Essay Example emic malignancy treatment in children have indicated that the treatment has particular adverse impacts that present years following the initial treatment termed as late effects. From the conclusions of the reviewed literature, it becomes clearer that management of childhood systemic malignancies have late effects on them as they grow and develop. This paper will seek to discuss the late effects that result from the management of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and brain tumors on pediatric patients, in this case regarding their neuro-cognitive development. In addition, because the neuro-cognitive deficits resulting from systemic malignancy management will cause psychosocial deficits, these will also be discussed as part of the paper. Finally, the paper will also briefly discuss how these late effects can be managed to improve the lives of the pediatric patients in later life, which is important because it is recognised that survivors of childhood systemic malignancy need follow-up care. The care model for pediatric systemic malignancy patients revolves around a risk-based approach that incorporates risks based on co-morbid health conditions and lifestyle behaviours (Carroll & Finlay 2010, p. 45). Deficits in neuro-cognitive function are commonly experienced by survivors of childhood systemic malignancy, manifesting in various domains such as language, visual-spatial skills, verbal memory, psychomotor skills, processing speed, executive functioning, concentration, and attention. While Bottomley & Kassner (2003, p. 129) contend that it has also been found that these deficits manifest across academic performance and intellectual functioning, it is important to note that these deficits are only limited to systemic malignancies like brain tumors and acute lymphoblastic leukemia. From the reading, it is probable that this is mostly caused by treatment directed at the CNS and the irreparable damage caused to a growing CNS, which results in neuro-cognitive deficits in later