ETHICAL CHALLENGES IN TREATING MOTHER AND FETUS WHEN CANCER COMPLICATES PREGNANCY

This article evaluates the complicated scenario for physicians when th ey must advise pregnant oncology patients and their families. Included in this discussion are a review of literature that addresses both mat ernal and fetal rights and an analysis of metaphysical considerations unique to this situation. Additionally, there is a presentation of phi losophical ideations, including an introduction to the ethical princip les of autonomy, beneficence, and authenticity, which are offered in a n attempt to increase the physician's comfort level with this very dif ficult task.