About cancer treatments and services

UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center pediatric patients have access to a number of treatments including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other advanced treatments.

In many cases, experts from a variety of disciplines convene tumor boards to analyze individual cancer cases and discuss treatment options. In addition, some tumors can be genetically profiled to enable physicians to target treatments according to the tumor’s specific genetic mutations.

Below are available treatment options; however, cancers are highly variable, and each requires a personalized plan. The oncologist will discuss the best approach for your child’s unique diagnosis.

Surgery

The tumor and surrounding tissue are removed by a surgical oncologist.

Radiation therapy

High-energy radiation is used to shrink a tumor and kill cancer cells.

Chemotherapy

Medicines used to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells are administered intravenously or taken orally.

Immunotherapy

Therapy that uses a patient’s own immune system to treat cancer by stimulating the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells or by introducing man-made proteins to kill cancer cells.

Visit pediatric cancer types for information about specific treatment options by cancer type

Services

We use a holistic approach to cancer care and offer many support services for our patients and their families.

Child Life Program

The Child Life Program helps provide a positive environment for the child, one in which they can grow and develop while receiving medical care. Child life specialists, music therapists and art therapists are trained to offer developmental, educational, and therapeutic interventions for children and their families under stress.

Read more about the Child Life Program 

Genetic counseling

Experts help individuals determine cancer risk using genetic tests and offer recommendations for screening and risk reduction.

Social work services

A team of social workers is available to support patients and their families from diagnosis through treatment. They offer psychological services and practical support, like finding temporary housing.

Onsite pharmacy services

We offer multiple pharmacy options throughout the health system, including inpatient (infusions) and outpatient (oral medication) pharmacies staffed by pharmacists who specialize in oncology medications and infusions. Some patients may qualify for home delivery of oral medication through the Specialty Oncology Program Service.

Nutrition counseling

Oncology dietitians offer tips for staying healthy during treatment, including managing treatment-related side effects like dry mouth and poor appetite.

Long-Term Effects Clinic

Pediatric cancer patients have access to clinic services aimed specifically at addressing the long-term effects of cancer treatment. Long-term effects from cancer surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may include physical, emotional or intellectual problems that develop or evolve over time.