ADVANCES IN PEDIATRIC ONCOLOGY: TARGETED THERAPIES AND PERSONALIZED TREATMENT

Abstract

Pediatric oncology has seen remarkable advances over the past few decades, resulting in increased survival rates and improved quality of life for children diagnosed with cancer. Traditional chemotherapy and radiation therapies, though effective, often come with long-term side effects that impact children's growth and development. Recent advances in targeted therapies and personalized medicine have significantly improved treatment outcomes, allowing for more precise, effective, and less toxic interventions. This article reviews the latest developments in pediatric oncology, with a focus on targeted therapies and personalized treatments. It explores the role of genetic and molecular profiling in tailoring treatment plans, the emergence of targeted therapies such as monoclonal antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors, and the challenges associated with their application in pediatric populations. Furthermore, the article discusses the ongoing efforts to overcome resistance mechanisms, improve early diagnosis, and optimize treatment regimens for various pediatric cancers.