Pediatric Oncology in Staten Island, NY
Every year, an estimated 400,000 children and adolescents ages 0-19 develop cancer, according to the World Health Organization. The pediatric oncology team at Richmond University Medical Center is here to help children with cancer and their families during these difficult times with compassionate, award-winning care.
The mission at Richmond University Medical Center involves caring for children and adults with various types of cancer by focusing on their specific needs, from diagnosis to treatment and recovery. Led by Dr. Mario Peichev, MD, our dedicated team includes expert oncologists, nurses, technologists, pharmacists, therapists, and tumor registrars. They work with the latest technology and treatments available.
Learn more about pediatric oncology services and how Richmond University Medical Center offers families peace of mind and the highest standard of care.
Diagnosis of Pediatric Cancer
To provide proper care and create the best possible treatment plan, physicians thoroughly assess the health of the child using advanced diagnostic tools. This step is crucial in accurately identifying a patient’s specific cancer type, overall health, and other needs. Beyond evaluating pediatric cancer symptoms, some tools physicians use to provide a comprehensive diagnosis include:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
To better evaluate the size and location of a possible tumor, this digital imagining technology requires patients to ingest a safe-for-consumption special dye. The dye allows magnetic fields to produce a clear view of the area in question.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan
During this test, physicians can detect how many can cancer cells are present in a patient’s body using an injected substance that affected cells can absorb.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scans
Using X-rays taken at various angles of the patient’s body, CT scans produce 3D images to allow physicians to examine a tumor at multiple vantage points to better understand its characteristics.
In addition to these exams, patients may undergo blood work and other laboratory tests to give the medical team more data to gain a broader understanding of their condition. With all of these methods combined, doctors can provide patients and their families with the most accurate diagnosis possible.
Treatments for Pediatric Cancer
Once children have received the appropriate diagnosis, our board-certified oncology team gets to work developing a treatment plan that is right for them and their condition. The primary methods for treating cancer include:
- Radiation therapy: This treatment utilizes a linear accelerator to create X-rays. These X-rays target the area where the tumor dwells to remove cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: To combat childhood cancers that tend to grow rapidly, chemotherapy is a highly effective treatment that injects cancer-fighting drugs into the body. These drugs spread throughout the affected areas to destroy cancer cells.
With the latest treatments in the field available, Richmond University Medical Center considers all possible treatment methods. In some cases, cancer may also be treated with surgery to remove tumors and affected tissues. Other treatment options available at Richmond University Medical Center include:
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Linear accelerator (LINAC) therapy
- High dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy
- Stereotactic radiosurgery
The patient’s medical team will collaborate to determine which treatments will be most effective based on their diagnosis and present all options to the family to discuss.
Family Care & Support Program
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, it affects the entire family. Parents, siblings, and other loved ones can experience significant emotional stress. To help cope during this time and better navigate the complexities of a cancer diagnosis and associated treatment, Richmond University Medical Center offers the Family Care & Support Program. In this program, families can speak with a team of licensed therapists and social workers who will offer guidance and support, as well as provide useful resources for families to better support their loved ones.
To take advantage of this program, please request a referral from the child’s primary care physician or oncology team. Families 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 Pediatric Oncology Care in Staten Island, New York
Cancer diagnoses can be incredibly challenging and draining, especially when they occur in children. Richmond University Medical Center makes it so families never have to endure this process alone. Located in Staten Island, New York, the team of oncologists and specialists at Richmond University Medical Center is dedicated to being there for patients and their families, offering expert pediatric oncology care and emotional support during the time it is needed the most. Contact us for more information about pediatric oncology services or to schedule an appointment today.
