Pediatric Cancer Programs & Clinics

At Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, we provide specialized cancer treatments along with family-centered care and support. We have oncology (cancer) treatment options for virtually every form of cancer that exists in children — from surgery and new drugs to clinical trials and programs for childhood cancer survivors.

Our Programs for Children with Cancer

Our pediatric cancer programs include:

Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Program

St. Louis Children’s Hospital has the region’s only dedicated pediatric brain tumor and neuro-oncology program. Our multidisciplinary team includes cancer specialists, neurosurgeons, therapists and nurse coordinators, among others. We offer innovative new treatments, including different types of drugs, radiation therapy, surgery and access to clinical trials. We also offer ongoing care and rehabilitation for children who have finished treatment, with a focus on helping them adapt to school and home.

Cancer Predisposition Program

This program focuses on identifying and monitoring children who are at a higher risk of developing cancer due to genetic factors. We use diagnostic testing, genetic screening and family history to determine which children may be at increased risk. By testing and monitoring these children, we have a better chance of catching and treating cancer early.

Clinical Trials

Our doctors lead the way in developing new pediatric cancer treatments. Clinical trials test new medications and procedures to evaluate if they are safe and effective. We participate in the Pacific Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Consortium (PNOC), giving our patients access to many clinical trials. We are the only PNOC site in the region.

We also offer treatments with investigational agents (also known as experimental drugs). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved these drugs for testing in people, but they are still considered investigational because they require further study. Sometimes, investigational agents have been approved for the treatment of another condition, but still require testing for use treating additional conditions.

Childhood Cancer Survivorship Program

Children who have completed cancer treatment are at risk for side effects from their treatment later on, known as late effects. Through this program, we follow all children who have completed their cancer treatment. We assess and monitor them for long-term side effects and recommend treatment options if late effects occur.

Siteman Cancer Center’s Survivorship Program

Children grow up, and adults who survived childhood cancer often experience long-term side effects. Our survivorship program is part of our comprehensive care for cancer survivors.

The clinic helps survivors manage the continuing emotional and physical side effects of pediatric cancer treatment. Our survivorship program includes resources to help patients manage symptoms. A dedicated school liaison works closely to help patients transition at all levels of education.

Melanoma and Nevus Clinic

Our program diagnoses and treats children with unusual moles and melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer. Care for these conditions often requires treatment by multiple specialists. Our clinic coordinates that care to make the process easier for families.

Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy Program

Our highly experienced transplant team treats conditions — including lymphoma, leukemia, many solid tumors and some immunodeficiencies — with stem cell and bone marrow transplants, as well as cellular therapy. Transplants can come from a donor who is related to the child, such as a sibling, or from an anonymous donor. In many cases, a bone marrow transplant can cure sickle cell disease.