Pediatrics malignancies are
cancers that are found in children from birth through age 18. Some of these cancers diagnosed in young adults are
also treated similarly. There are approximately 8,500 newly
diagnosed pediatric malignancies each year. Leukemia accounts for about one-third of the total number of cases, with
multiple other cancers making up the remainder.
In-depth
Information
The general signs and symptoms are dependent on the type and location of the tumor. In children, common problems that lead to evaluation by a physician include easy bruising, loss of balance and stumbling as well as unexplained, persistent lumps. Generally, the parents bring a child to their pediatrician with a concern regarding one of the complaints described above. After a careful examination, the pediatrician will frequently examine the properties of the blood with the assistance of a hematologist. X-rays or a CT scan may also be ordered to help detect the source of the problem. Frequently the child will be referred to a specialist for other tests including a biopsy. If the biopsy demonstrates the presence of cancer, the next step is to stage the disease.
Staging is a process where the extent and possible spread of the cancer is evaluated. This is accomplished by compiling all of the information obtained with the physical examination, X-rays, and even surgical evaluation. Additional tests may be performed at this time. The stage varies by the particular tumor type and location. In general, stage I tumors are confined to the site of origin, stage IV tumors have spread to distant sites, and stage II and III tumors have intermediate extent.
The overall outcome is
generally dependent on the stage of the cancer with lower stage patients having
a more favorable prognosis. The
treatment of pediatric cancers is dependent on the age of the child, location,
and tumor type as well as the stage of the disease. The three general treatment strategies are surgery, radiation,
and chemotherapy. In children, the
combination of all three is often utilized to maximize the chance of cure while
limiting the potential side effects of treatment.
Research
& Clinical Trials
Most children with cancer are treated using guidelines in national research protocols. This is also the case at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston. These protocols compile all of the knowledge obtained in the past and investigate new treatment techniques which may improve the likelihood of cure. Click here to visit our clinical trials center.