Track 12: Pediatric oncology

Pediatric oncology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer in children. Pediatric oncologists are experts in the treatment of childhood cancers, which are different from adult cancers in terms of type, progression, and response to treatment. While childhood cancers are relatively rare compared to adult cancers, advances in pediatric oncology have significantly improved survival rates over the past several decades.

Symptoms of Childhood Cancers

The symptoms of childhood cancer can vary widely depending on the type and location of the cancer. Common signs that might prompt a visit to a pediatric oncologist include:

• Unexplained weight loss or lack of appetite.
• Persistent pain, swelling, or lumps in the body.
• Unexplained fever or night sweats.
• Unusual bleeding or bruising.
• Difficulty breathing or persistent cough (in the case of lung or chest tumors).
• Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
• Neurological symptoms such as headaches, seizures, or changes in behavior (in the case of brain tumors).
• Pale skin or unexplained paleness.

Diagnostic Tests in Pediatric Oncology

1. Physical Exam: A thorough examination by the pediatric oncologist to identify any abnormalities or symptoms of cancer.

2. Blood Tests: Used to check for abnormal blood counts, liver function, and other indicators of cancer (e.g., tumor markers for certain cancers).

3. Imaging Studies:

   • X-rays: To detect bone tumors or other abnormalities.
   • Ultrasound: Used to examine soft tissues and organs like the liver, kidneys, and abdomen.
   • CT Scan: Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the body, helpful for detecting tumors in various areas.
   • MRI: Especially useful for brain and spinal cord tumors, providing high-resolution images of soft tissues.
   • PET Scan: Helps in detecting cancer spread (metastasis) and in monitoring treatment response.

4. Biopsy: A procedure to obtain a sample of tissue from the tumor to determine if it is cancerous and, if so, which type of cancer it is.

5. Bone Marrow Aspiration: In cases like leukemia, a sample of bone marrow is taken to examine the presence of abnormal cells.

6. Genetic Testing: In certain cancers, such as retinoblastoma or neuroblastoma, genetic testing may be performed to identify inherited genetic mutations or abnormalities.