Springer Concise Manual of Hematology and Oncology

How Do We Treat? Hematology and Oncology have seen rapid progress and advances during recent years. Increased knowledge of tumor biology, epidemiology, molecular genetics, growth reg- lation, and cellular functions has led to novel therapeutic paradigms. Targeted trea- ment approaches, antibodies, immunotherapy, and other new techniques complement classic chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. Patients are increasingly well educated as web-based information on diagnostic and therapeutic options as well as quality ma- agement and tumor outcome data are readily available. In this dynamic and fast-paced environment, it is of central importance to base clinical decisions and medical practice on the best available evidence. Continuous quality ma- agement, with clinical process documentation, standardization, and evaluation, leads to improved patient care and long-term outcomes. For these reasons, we have started to systematically capture and evaluate data on diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of p- tients with solid tumors and hematological neoplasms at the Freiburg University Med- cal Center. We have developed standard operating procedures, clinical pathways, and diagnostic and therapeutic processes, following the principles of “Good Clinical Pra- tice.” Tese processes (e.g., detailed protocols for chemotherapy application, treatment fowcharts, clinical pathways) are continuously tested and validated in clinical practice.