Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Pediatric cancer is the second cause of hospitalization of children in Brazil and the primary reason for potential years of life lost. A wide range of therapies have been discussed in studies on the subject. Although they have improved patient outcomes, they are not free of side effects. OBJECTIVE: This study analyzes the neurodevelopmental impacts of cancer treatment on patients seen at a tertiary pediatric hospital in Curitiba/ PR. It also presents an epidemiological analysis of children undergoing treatment for blood cancers at a referral hospital in Curitiba/PR. METHOD: The records of 156 patients seen in the Hematologic Oncology Department of a referral hospital in the city of Curitiba/PR were selected. A descriptive analysis of the data was carried out, which were presented in absolute numbers and proportions, followed by correlations between the identified neurodevelopmental sequelae and the cancer types, together with the respective therapies prescribed. RESULTS: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia was the most prevalent type of cancer, with 52.6% of cases, followed by central nervous system tumors and acute myeloid leukemia. The main side effects were anxiety; depression; aggressiveness; attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); cerebral palsy; auditory, visual, motor and speech impairment. Conclusion: Despite the significant reduction in morbidity and mortality, cancer therapies may cause early and late sequelae in patients undergoing treatment.