Children with rare diseases: ethical, social, psychological and medical issues

Abstract

The article describes ethical, social, psychological and medical problems in the families raising children with rare diseases. It is quite difficult to diagnose a rare disease. It leads to financial deprivation of the family, social isolation and marginalization. Patient organizations play a large role in public awareness of rare diseases. It is of crucial importance to make treatment accessible, to provide qualified medical care, social support of families, to improve cooperation between research centers, medical institutions and patients.