How I approach the use of bibliotherapy in caring for children with oncologic and hematologic conditions

Abstract

Bibliotherapy utilizes storybook readings to foster expressive therapy for children. Storybooks represent a readily available yet underutilized support tool in pediatric hematology and oncology care settings. Storybooks can help explain a new diagnosis, treatment plan, body changes, and identity adjustment in a relatable way for patients to then have a safe space to process questions and emotions. This paper serves as a "how to" guide for clinicians to consider bibliotherapy for a patient, select suitable book options, and introduce and incorporate bibliotherapy as part of comprehensive care.

A Pediatric Case of Intraocular Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor

“…1 The MPNST probably origins from neural crest cells and variably differentiate toward one of the cellular lineages of nerve sheath. 3 The MPNSTs can arise sporadically, be induced by radiation exposure, or have a genetic basis (up to 60% MPNSTs are related to neurofibromatosis tipo 1 mutation). 4,5 The cases within the orbital socket are extremely rare, they primarily originate from supraorbital sensitive branches of the trigeminal nerve, or from preexisting neurofibromas inside the orbit.…”

“…21 MPNST is very aggressive and has limited responsiveness to therapy; the complete surgical removal combined with radiotherapy of the region is the best strategy to minimize its recurrence and metastasis. 3,22 The overall survival of MPNST 10 years after diagnosis is ∼45%. 3 Many aspects contributed to the misdiagnosis of our case: suspect exudative retinal detachment in a pediatric patient, diagnostic vitrectomy negative for malignant cells, and absence of any genetic risk factors.…”

“…3,22 The overall survival of MPNST 10 years after diagnosis is ∼45%. 3 Many aspects contributed to the misdiagnosis of our case: suspect exudative retinal detachment in a pediatric patient, diagnostic vitrectomy negative for malignant cells, and absence of any genetic risk factors.…”

“…Books represent a readily available yet underutilized support tool in pediatric hematology and oncology care settings. 3 Books can help to normalize extraordinary circumstances and provide practical and supportive information to which patients can repeatedly refer. The overall aim of bibliotherapy is to increase mental well-being and improve mental health.…”

“…Books provide a practical, tangible format to help children understand a new diagnosis, address physical changes, communicate their fears, worries, and hopes, and find safe ways to process complex emotions. 3 In contrast, books can be a helpful tool to introduce communication about dying and death with children. They can also assist those caring for children and families facing endof-life issues.…”