Assessment of Aerobic Capacity in Pediatric Oncology Patients: Evaluación de la Capacidad Aeróbica en Pacientes Oncológicos Pediátricos: A Review of the Scientific Literature

Abstract

Aim This study aims to conduct a comprehensive review of the scientific literature to identify and evaluate available instruments for measuring aerobic fitness in pediatric cancer patients or cancer survivors. Validated instruments with a high level of evidence are selected for implementation in this population. Materials and methods
The search for articles was conducted in various databases, including PubMed, PeDro, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Hindawi, and Scielo, covering publications between 2018 and 2023. Specific descriptors related to the pediatric population, cancer, exercise, and aerobic capacity were used. Studies with a level of evidence greater than 2+ according to the SIGN classification were included. The focus was on assessing aerobic capacity using reliable and validated instruments. Results The review compiled information on several aerobic fitness measurement instruments in pediatric cancer patients. These included the 6-Minute Walk Test, the 1-Minute Sit-to-Stand Test, the 2-Minute March Test, the Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test, and the Chester Test. Most of these instruments demonstrated robust psychometric properties, with reliability coefficients ranging from 0.80 to 1, reducing the risk of error in the results, and validity levels ranging from acceptable to good (0.70–0.95). Conclusion This article highlights the importance of evidence-based practice in physical therapy, focusing on assessment as a starting point for therapeutic intervention. It provides a compilation of validated instruments for assessing aerobic capacity in pediatric oncology patients, allowing practitioners to select and apply the most appropriate measures based on each patient's clinical and contextual conditions. This approach contributes to more effective and personalized interventions in oncology treatment.