Most common forms of childhood cancer
April 2, 2019
Many childhood cancers differ greatly from those observed in adult patients. 3 of the most common forms are listed below:
- Leukemia
- Accounting for nearly 30% of all cases of childhood cancer, leukemias are the most common form expressed in children. This form of cancer occurs in the blood and typically originates in the bone marrow. Common types include Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) as well as acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). Symptoms often include bone pain, fatigue, bleeding, bruising and pale skin.
- Brain and Spinal Tumors
- The second most common form of cancer in children, around 26% of those diagnosed, are found in the central nervous system. Due to its complex components, there are many forms of cancer which can develop in this region, each requiring unique approaches and techniques. This type of cancer often begins in the lower area of the brain, near the cerebellum. Symptoms of this disease often include nausea, headaches, dizziness, seizures as well as other symptoms.
- Neuroblastoma
- This form of cancer, affecting 6% of childhood cases, begins in the developing nerve cells of a fetus. Although relatively common, neuroblastoma is rarely developed after the age of 10. Warning signs include tumor development, often noticed as swelling of the abdomen.
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