A substantial number of children cared for by pediatric palliative care physicians have progressive non-malignant conditions. Some elements of their care overlap with care for children with cancer while other elements, especially prognosis and trajectory, have nuanced differences. This article reviews the population, physical-emotional and social concerns, and trajectory.
Keywords: disease progression; emotional support; hospice care; inborn genetic diseases; metabolic diseases; palliative care; palliative medicine; social support; symptom management; terminal care.