ESPE Yearbook of Paediatric Endocrinology

Preface

As in previous years, most of the selected papers concern the medium and long-term complications of cancer therapy. Issues related to long-term surveillance strategies represent an emerging topic of discussion. In comparison with previous years, this year we have found few truly original and innovative studies. Rather, the attention of the researchers seems to be focused on confirming and consolidating acquired data, in particular:

– The development of subsequent neoplasms in childhood cancer survivors does not correlate with the use of substitutive therapy with growth hormone, but seems to be primarily associated with the use of radiotherapy. – The hormone deficiencies resulting from cancer treatment are predominantly secondary to radiotherapy. Chemotherapeutic drugs cause a minor long-term endocrine damage, although some of them (particularly alkylating agents) have a significant gonadotoxic effect. – Novel genetic markers influencing detrimental effects of chemotherapy on long-term ovarian function have been reported. The identification of these markers can improve the development of risk prediction models. Fertility preservation programs, including ovarian tissue cryopreservation, would benefit from personalized counselling directed to adolescent and young adults at higher risk of gonadotoxicity.