Neonatal cancer: a clinical perspective

The diagnosis of a neonatal malignancy, while rare, requires complex knowledgeable care from members of the health care team. The neonatal intensive care nurse plays an important role on that team. The types of malignancies found in neonates differ from those in older children, as do the neonate's responses to treatment. A review of the presentation, diagnosis, and management of the more common types of neonatal malignancies provides the context for consideration of the nurse's role in providing specialized care to neonates with cancer.