Childhood Cancers
While kids and adults do get some of the same types of cancers, there are significant differences between the two. Childhood cancers can occur suddenly, without early symptoms. They are generally caused by random DNA changes in your child's cells, not lifestyle or environmental risk factors as is the case with adults. Because they occur randomly and unpredictably, there isn't an effective way to prevent childhood cancer.
Doctors use many tests to diagnose cancer and find out if it has metastasized (spread). For most types of cancer, a biopsy is the best way to make a definitive diagnosis. If a biopsy is not possible, the doctor may suggest other tests that will help make a diagnosis. Imaging tests may also be used to assist with the final diagnosis.
Common Types of Pediatric Cancers
Leukemia, lymphomas and brain tumors account for more than 60 percent of all childhood cancers.
Childhood Leukemia
Leukemia is the most common childhood cancer. It includes cancers of the bone marrow and blood. The two types of childhood leukemia are Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is the most common form of leukemia. It affects lymphocytes, a class of white blood cells. Leukemic cells accumulate in the bone marrow, replacing normal blood cells and then spreading to the liver, spleen, lymph nodes, central nervous system, kidneys and gonads.
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a form of cancer in which the bone marrow produces a large number of abnormal blood cells. The leukemia cells can build up in the blood and bone marrow making less room for healthy white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets.
Childhood Lymphoma
Lymphomas are the second most common cancer among kids and teens. They affect the lymphatic system and reduce the immune system's ability to fight off infections. The two main types of lymphoma are Hodgkin Disease and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. The main difference is the specific type of white blood cell the cancer affects.
- Hodgkin Disease is distinguishable by the appearance of a specific type of abnormal white blood cell called a Reed-Sternberg cell.
- Non-Hodgkin refers to a class of different lymphomas that do not have the Reed-Sternberg cell. In general, these cancers are more complicated to diagnosis and treat.
Brain Tumors in Children
Brain tumors are a group of diseases characterized by the abnormal growth of tissue in the skull. They are typically discovered early since the brain regulates important functions such as memory, learning, hearing, sight, smell and emotion. When these are disrupted, signs of a problem are generally quickly apparent.
Other Pediatric Cancer Diagnoses
The remaining child and teen cancers are generally made up of the following:
- Neuroblastoma
- Wilms tumor
- Rhabdomyosarcoma
- Retinoblastoma
- Bone cancer (including osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma)
Make an Appointment with a Childhood Cancer Specialist
St. Jude Affiliate Clinic at Saint Francis Children's Hospital
Learn More About Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Saint Francis
From diagnosis to treatment, our pediatric cancer and blood specialists will help you navigate your child's care.
Helpful Resources
Hematology/Oncology at Saint Francis Children's Hospital
Pediatric Blood Disorders
Learn More About Cancer Services Provided by Saint Francis
For additional information or to schedule a consultation with a cancer specialist, please call Saint Francis HealthLink at 918-488-6688.
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