Valoración nutricional en el paciente oncológico pediátrico

Childhood cancer is considered to be the second cause of mortality in children. Progress in the research, diagnostic methods and effectiveness of treatment can improve the survival rate. The neoplasm itself, as well as the treatment can give rise to malnutrition. This can affect patient survival, tolerance and the response to cancer treatments and increased mortality. An assessment of the nutritional state is required, with knowledge of associated symptoms and degree of risk of antineoplastic treatment, in order to calculate the nutritional needs. Likewise, there must be specific goals and appropriate nutritional intervention, in order to increase survival, reduce complications and improve the quality of life.