Pediatric Oncology
For childhood cancers, child-focused, family-centered, and multidisciplinary oncology care is coordinated across our accredited network.
What is pediatric oncology?
Pediatric oncology is the field of medicine dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of cancers in children aged 0–18. Childhood cancers differ from adult cancers in both type and response to treatment.
The good news is that the vast majority of childhood cancers today respond very well to treatment and have high cure rates.
What are the most common childhood cancers?
The main cancers seen in children:
Causes and risk factors
The cause of most childhood cancers is unknown; possible factors:
- Genetic predisposition and certain inherited syndromes
- Random cell changes occurring during development
- Immune system disorders
- Rarely, high-dose radiation exposure
Symptoms of childhood cancers
Symptoms vary by type; things to watch for:
- Persistent paleness, weakness, and bruising
- Persistent fever and frequent infections
- A palpable mass or swollen lymph nodes
- Persistent headache, morning vomiting, loss of balance
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bone or joint pain, limping
How is cancer diagnosed in children?
Diagnosis is made with child-appropriate methods:
- Blood tests and complete blood count
- Bone marrow examination (in leukemia)
- Biopsy and pathological/genetic examination
- Imaging methods
Imaging methods in pediatric oncology
Approaches that minimize radiation are preferred:
- Ultrasound
- MRI (radiation-free, preferred)
- CT and PET-CT (when needed)
- Scintigraphy (neuroblastoma, bone tumors)
Treatment of childhood cancers
Treatment is delivered by a multidisciplinary team mindful of the child's development:
Family-centered, child-focused care
Childhood cancers require special expertise. At National Cancer Alliance, we arrange a free second opinion for your child's case from pediatric oncology specialists and coordinate psychosocial support for the family.
Prognosis and survival rates
Treatment success in childhood cancers is generally much higher than in adults. At advanced centers, the overall 5-year survival across all childhood cancers is about 85%, and even higher in some leukemias and lymphomas.
Long-term follow-up after treatment is important for the child's healthy development and the management of possible late effects.
What to know and support
Most cannot be prevented, but early diagnosis and the right center matter:
- Showing warning signs to a pediatrician without delay
- Treatment at an experienced pediatric oncology center
- Psychosocial and educational support for the family
- Regular long-term follow-up after treatment
Frequently asked questions
Do childhood cancers heal?
Yes, the vast majority respond very well to treatment and have high cure rates. Early diagnosis and the right center are very important.
Will treatment affect my child's development?
Modern treatments aim to protect developing tissue. Long-term follow-up allows early management of possible late effects.
Are siblings at risk?
Most childhood cancers are not hereditary. Family screening is recommended only in certain genetic syndromes.
Should I get a second opinion?
Specialist experience directly affects outcomes in childhood cancers; an independent pediatric oncology review is of great value.
Ready for a plan built around you?
Start with a free, no-obligation second opinion from a board-certified oncologist. Have your case reviewed and every option explained clearly.
Get a FREE Second OpinionThis page provides general information about childhood cancers; it is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All treatments are provided by independent, accredited hospitals and licensed physicians. Your treatment decision should be made by a qualified physician based on your individual situation.