Children's cancer services

About

Our paediatric oncology (cancer) service is based at St Mary’s Hospital within the paediatrics department. It is part of the paediatric haematology and bone marrow transplantation service provided by the paediatric haematology team.

The service accepts urgent two-week referrals from GPs, self-referrals via our paediatric accident and emergency department and referrals from other paediatric services within the Trust.

Holistic care is provided with an emphasis on carrying out safe and effective treatment with as little disruption as possible to the child’s normal life. Close communication is maintained at all times with the primary treatment centres and the children’s community nursing teams.

Shared care paediatric oncology unit (POSCU)

Our service has the only level 2 shared care paediatric oncology unit (POSCU) in north west London and is part of the North Thames Children and Young People Cancer Network. We work closely with Great Ormond Street Hospital, University College London Hospital and the children’s community nursing teams in four London boroughs.

Patients are looked after by a specialist team led by a paediatric haemato-oncology consultant, supported by specialist nurses, pharmacists, dietitians, play specialists and physiotherapists. We offer all aspects of inpatient and outpatient supportive care and day care chemotherapy. The unit consistently performs at a very high level as per the National Cancer Action Team standards by external peer reviewers.

Additional information

Education and elective placements

Any medical students wishing to undertake elective placements, or anyone interested in work experience, should contact Dr Leena Karnik on l.karnik@nhs.net and the St Mary's Hospital electives team on imperial.electives@nhs.net.

Further online resources

• Macmillan Cancer Support – children’s cancers 
• Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group
• Cancer Research UK
• Bloodwise - leukaemia and lymphoma research
• Headsmart
• Teenage Cancer Trust
• Teenagers and Young Adults with Cancer