Specialized clinical services

Anemia

Our service aids in the diagnosis and management of anemia. We offer consultation on the management of patients with congenital anemias, including sickle cell disease, hereditary spherocytosis and Diamond-Blackfan anemia. We are a leading NIH-funded center for clinical trials on the natural history and management of pediatric sickle cell disease, including novel therapies such as Hydroxyurea. Chronic transfusion therapy and erythrocytopheresis are provided to selected patients.

Neutropenia

We evaluate and assist in the management of congenital and acquired causes of neutropenia, including benign neutropenia of childhood, congenital agranulocytosis and drug-induced neutropenia.

Thrombocytopenia

We evaluate and manage patients with ITP and other causes of thrombocytopenia.

Coagulation

Our staff will diagnose and aid in the care of patients with bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia and Von Willebrand’s disease. Our comprehensive hemophilia program is a designated Hemophilia Treatment Center (HTC) supported by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). We also perform specialized evaluations of individuals predisposed to thrombosis.

Leukemia and lymphoma

We will diagnose and manage patients with acute and chronic leukemia, Hodgkin’s disease and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. We are active participants in Children’s Oncology Group (COG) protocols for treatment of these malignancies.

Brain tumors and solid tumors

We assist in the management of patients with brain tumors, Wilms tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, neuroblastoma, osteosarcoma and other solid tumors. Members of the division work closely with neurosurgeons, pediatric surgeons and pediatric radiation therapists at the School of Medicine to provide optimal multi-modality care for these patients. Our center also participates in trials of new phase I chemotherapeutic agents in patients with refractory malignancies.

Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit

The six-bed Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant unit is conveniently located adjacent to the The Hale Irwin Center for Pediatric Hematology/Oncology. It is responsible for approximately 35 to 40 pediatric transplant procedures each year. The program admitted its first patient in September 1991, as the first children’s hospital to perform this procedure in Missouri. It offers state-of-the-art care for the children of this region and provides an environment conducive to clinical investigation with programs developing innovative therapies for malignant and genetic diseases. Our multidisciplinary team is designed to provide comprehensive, pediatric-specific care to our patients and families to address not only medical, but also emotional, social and spiritual needs. Our team of highly skilled nurses, nurse practitioners, psychologists, social workers, child life, chaplain and school liaison cover every aspect of the transplant experience. In addition, a group of specially trained volunteers provides respite for parents and social interaction for the children.

Patients eligible for transplantation include those with relapsed ALL, AML, relapsed or refractory lymphoma, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, SCIDS, solid tumors, sickle cell disease and lysosomal storage diseases.

For more detailed information regarding the BMT program, please visit the St. Louis Children’s Hospital website.

Programs

Bone Marrow Transplant Program

SLCH: Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy Program

St. Louis Children’s Hospital has provided pediatric bone marrow transplants since 1991. Our bone marrow transplant program was the first of its kind in Missouri, created specifically for children. Now, our pediatric Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy Program offers three types of treatment: stem cell transplant, bone marrow transplant, and cellular therapy

Brain Tumor Program

SLCH: Pediatric Brain Tumor Program

When your child is diagnosed with a brain tumor, you want the best care imaginable. You want the most advanced treatments, experienced specialists and a team focused on your child’s long-term quality of life.

Cancer Predisposition Program

SLCH: Genetic Testing for Pediatric Cancer

Knowing your child may have an increased risk for cancer can be worrisome. Fortunately, we know genetic testing for cancer can improve the chance of finding and treating some cancers at an early stage.

Comprehensive Bleeding Disorder Program

SLCH: Bleeding Disorders Center

Children diagnosed with bleeding disorders can lead safe and full lives when they receive proper treatment and manage their conditions.

The Bleeding Disorders Center at St. Louis Children’s Hospital provides you and your child with the education, support and empowerment you need to help your child navigate treatment — and all of life’s possibilities — safely.

Global Neuro-Oncology Program (GNOP)

WUSM: Global Neuro-Oncology Program (GNOP)

The Global Neuro-Oncology Program (GNOP) was established to foster partnerships between Washington University and other institutions throughout the world aimed at addressing disparities in cancer care through research, education, outreach, capacity building and technological innovations.

Heartland Southwest Sickle Cell Disease Network

One of five HRSA-funded regions in the United States

Funded by a grant from Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) for the purpose of improving care and quality of life of people with sickle cell disease in the eight-state region.

Late Effects Program

SLCH: Childhood Cancer Survivorship Program

Chemotherapy, radiation and surgery are vital treatments for many pediatric cancer patients. But these lifesaving measures can take a toll on young bodies. Some side effects of childhood cancer treatment may not show up for many years. These side effects are called late effects.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Program

WUSM: Pediatric Leukemia & Lymphoma Program

Our program consists of eight core faculty members, as well as many highly-skilled fellows, residents, nurse practitioners, nurse coordinators and nurses. This page offers four sections to introduce you to the academic missions of the program, including patient care, research and teaching.

New Therapeutic Agents Program

SLCH: Investigational Agents and Phase 1

The Investigational Agents and Phase 1 Program offers several treatment regimens that provide the newest drugs and therapies available for children with malignant diseases. Both Phase I and Phase II clinical trials are available for patient enrollment.

Sickle Cell Program

SLCH: Sickle Cell Disease Program

Sickle cell disease often impacts all aspects of children’s lives, but it doesn’t have to control their lives. St. Louis Children’s Hospital has the largest and most experienced sickle cell program in Missouri. We help children and families manage this condition and obtain the best quality of life possible.