Pediatric Palliative Care for Children with Progressive Non-Malignant Diseases

Abstract

A substantial number of children cared for by pediatric palliative care physicians have progressive non-malignant conditions. Some elements of their care overlap with care for children with cancer while other elements, especially prognosis and trajectory, have nuanced differences. This article reviews the population, physical-emotional and social concerns, and trajectory.

Keywords

• palliative care
• palliative medicine
• terminal care
• hospice care
• metabolic diseases
• inborn genetic diseases
• social support
• disease progression
• symptom management
• emotional support