Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic - Pediatric
Pediatric cancer survivors may have cancer-related healthcare needs long after their active treatment is complete. The Kentucky Children’s Hospital Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic offers a high level of care from experts who not only understand pediatric cancer, but also the ongoing effects that the cancer and its treatment may cause. The Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic is designed for patients who have been off treatment for at least five years following cancer treatment.
Children are typically referred to the Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic by their oncology providers, but patients or families can also request appointments.
Initial Visits and Ongoing Care
For childhood cancer survivors, the first visit to the Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic will likely include a day of review and testing. Providers may create or discuss your child’s ongoing follow-up care plan. These plans are based on numerous factors, including the type of cancer your child had and the treatment your child received.
The types of tests our providers perform will vary greatly depending on your child’s needs. They may include blood tests and imaging tests, as well as other tests that check for signs and symptoms of late adverse effects from cancer treatments. We personalize care plans for each patient based on their cancer history, treatment history and medical history.
Most patients visit the Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic annually, but the frequency of visits will be determined by the provider.
Monitoring for Late Adverse Effects
Chemotherapy, radiation, surgery and other forms of treatment carry different health risks and concerns.
These may include:
- Liver, lung or kidney problems, with their severity depending on the type of treatment your child received
- Problems with learning, memory or multitasking, often seen with chemotherapy or radiation
- Problems with fertility, especially following radiation or some chemotherapy drugs
- Slow or stunted bone growth from radiation or chemotherapy
Treatment effects may be apparent immediately, but some won’t develop until years later.
Why Regular Long-Term Follow-Up Care is Important for Childhood Cancer Survivors
Follow-up care will vary from patient to patient, but it is important for providers to monitor for adverse effects of cancer treatments as well as signs of new or returning cancers. Our providers offer comprehensive care, including additional education and resources, to ensure your child’s health and well-being are maintained after their cancer treatments.