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Published on: September 18, 2013
Effect of paediatric onco-rehabilitation on child with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Shrutika Sharad Khairnar1, Sharath Hullumani2, Pratiksha Warghat1
1Paediatric and Neonatal Physiotherapy, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research Deemed to be University, Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, Wardha, Maharashtra, India.
Insights
This case report highlights how aquatic rehabilitation significantly improved physical function and reduced fatigue in a child with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). Hydrotherapy-based physiotherapy offers a promising approach for pediatric cancer recovery.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Physiotherapy
Background:
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is the most common childhood cancer, primarily affecting children aged 2-5 years.
- While survival rates for ALL are high (80-90%), treatment side effects like fatigue and motor deficits significantly impair quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the case of a South Asian child diagnosed with ALL presenting with fatigue and muscle weakness.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a hydrotherapy-based physiotherapy program in improving physical function and well-being in a pediatric ALL patient post-chemotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis of ALL was confirmed via complete blood count and bone marrow biopsy.
- A physiotherapy program utilizing hydrotherapy was implemented following chemotherapy.
- Standardized assessments including the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale, WeeFIM/FIM, Paediatric Balance Scale, and timed up-and-go test were used for evaluation.
Main Results:
- The child showed significant improvements in joint mobility and muscle strength post-intervention.
- Reductions in fatigue levels were observed.
- Functional assessments indicated positive gains in mobility and balance.
Conclusions:
- Aquatic rehabilitation is an effective intervention for enhancing physical recovery in children with ALL.
- Hydrotherapy-based physiotherapy can positively impact the overall well-being and functional status of pediatric cancer patients.
Abstract:
The most prevalent paediatric malignancy, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), mostly affects children between the ages of 2 and 5 years. Its incidence is 101.4 per million. The quality of life can be negatively impacted by side symptoms such as weariness and motor deficits, even if the current treatments have an 80-90% survival rate. This case report describes a South Asian child with ALL who had diminished stamina, tiredness and muscle weakness. Through complete blood count and bone marrow biopsy, the diagnosis was verified. After chemotherapy, a hydrotherapy-based physiotherapy programme was implemented. Significant gains in joint mobility, muscle strength and decreased fatigue were shown by post-intervention evaluations. The hospital anxiety depression scale, WeeFIM/FIM, the Paediatric Balance Scale and the timed up-and-go test were additional instruments employed. The findings demonstrate how aquatic rehabilitation benefits children with ALL in terms of their physical recovery and general well-being.
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