Management of a major varicella zoster exposure in a pediatric oncology population.

Management of the exposure of pediatric oncology patients to varicella zoster virus (VZV) is controversial. We report the exposure of 56 patients to a single child with chicken pox at a pediatric cancer housing facility and describe our strategic approach for their management. We reviewed the immune and clinical status of 56 children with cancer receiving ongoing treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) who, while living at a pediatric cancer housing facility, were exposed to the index patient.

Preliminary results of a phase I trial of prophylactic ethanol-lock administration to prevent mediport catheter-related bloodstream infections.

Background: Catheter-related bloodstream infections remain costly with no simple prevention. We report preliminary results of a phase I trial of ethanol-lock administration to prevent mediport catheter-related bloodstream infections in children.

Methods: Twelve patients receiving intravenous antibody treatments for neuroblastoma were enrolled.

Pediatric considerations in tumor lysis syndrome.

Objectives: To identify pediatric issues related to tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) focusing on potential differences in patient monitoring and management in the pediatric patient as opposed to the adult; to discuss family and caregiver education.

Data Sources: Primary and tertiary literature and clinical experience.

Conclusions: Pediatric patients are at high risk for developing TLS given the high incidence of hematologic malignancies in this population.