How to ventilate critically ill children with cancer?: A narrative review

Domínguez-Rojas J.; Torres Godoy S.F.; Mora Robles L.N.; Méndez Aceituno A. · Emergency and Critical Care Medicine (2025) · DOI: 10.1097/ec9.0000000000000131

Resumen

The management of respiratory failure and hypoxemia in children with cancer presents a critical challenge. Choosing between invasive and noninvasive mechanical ventilation can profoundly impact mortality rates, especially in resource-limited settings. Choosing between invasive and noninvasive mechanical ventilation can impact mortality rates, particularly in resource-limited settings. Extensive clinical studies are imperative to thoroughly evaluate the efficacy of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and noninvasive ventilation (NIV) during the early stages of treatment. Further research is crucial to determine the most optimal therapeutic approach. Early implementation of IMV or NIV could significantly reduce mortality rates in these patients.[1] Additionally, this article examines the admission of children with terminal cancer, evaluating their use of invasive and noninvasive ventilatory support versus palliative care. The interdisciplinary medical team, in collaboration with the family, must carefully consider the benefits and risks of these interventions, whether in the early or terminal stages of the disease. Furthermore, the article delves into the controversies surrounding the utilization of ventilation in critically ill children with cancer. © Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.