Detecting cancer in children early can be difficult because symptoms often look like common childhood illnesses. The key is to notice symptoms that are persistent, unusual, or getting worse.
Warning signs that should be checked
Parents should see a pediatrician if a child has:
- Fever that keeps returning
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Pale skin
- Frequent infections
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent bone or joint pain
- Limping without injury
- Swollen lymph nodes that do not go away
- A lump or swelling anywhere in the body
- Headaches with morning vomiting
- Vision problems or crossed eyes
- Balance problems or seizures
- Persistent stomach swelling or pain
- Night sweats
Common childhood cancers and symptoms
Leukemia
Most common childhood cancer.
Possible signs:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Bone pain
- Frequent infections
- Bruising or bleeding
Brain tumors
Possible signs:
- Morning headaches
- Vomiting
- Vision changes
- Trouble walking or balancing
- Behavior changes
Lymphoma
Possible signs:
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Night sweats
Bone cancer
Possible signs:
- Persistent bone pain
- Swelling near bones or joints
- Limping
How doctors detect cancer in children
Doctors may use:
- Physical examination
- Blood tests
- X-rays or ultrasound
- MRI or CT scans
- Bone marrow test
- Biopsy (to confirm cancer cells)
Important point
Most children with these symptoms do not have cancer. But if symptoms continue for more than a couple of weeks, recur often, or worsen, medical evaluation is important.
When to seek urgent care
Seek prompt medical attention if the child has:
- Severe headaches with vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Heavy bleeding
- Sudden weakness or seizures
- Rapidly growing swelling
