Paediatric Cancer

• Unexplained weight loss
• Headaches, often with early morning vomiting
• Pain/swelling in bones, joints, back or legs
• Lump or mass in the abdomen, neck, chest, pelvis or armpits
• Excessive bruising, bleeding or rash
• Constant infections
• A whitish colour behind the pupil
• Persisting nausea
• Constant tiredness or noticeable paleness
• Eye or vision changes that occur suddenly and persist
• Recurrent fevers of unknown origin

• Longer life expectancy in children allows a longer time for cancer processes to manifest, increasing the risk of developing some cancer types later in life.
• Genetic and familial factors are identified in 5-15 per cent of paediatric cancer cases.
• Environmental exposure such as prenatal exposure to tobacco, X-rays or certain medications are identified in <5 per cent of cases.
• For the remaining 95 per cent of cases, however, individual causes remain unknown

Recognizing the symptoms of pediatric cancer is crucial for timely intervention. Common signs may include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent fever
• Fatigue
• Unusual lumps or swelling

Other symptoms can manifest as changes in vision or hearing, persistent pain in bones or joints, or easy bruising and bleeding. These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other illnesses, making awareness and vigilance essential. Parents should consult a child specialist if they notice any concerning signs in their children, ensuring a thorough evaluation.

Pediatric cancer encompasses various types, with leukemia, brain tumors, and neuroblastoma being among the most prevalent. Leukemia, particularly acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), is the most common type of cancer in children. Brain tumors, which can affect cognitive and physical development, are another significant concern. Neuroblastoma, arising from nerve tissue, primarily affects infants and young children. Other types, such as Wilms tumor (kidney cancer) and retinoblastoma (eye cancer), also warrant attention. Understanding these common types helps in recognizing symptoms and seeking appropriate care.

• Primary diagnosis: Physical examination, blood tests
• Advanced diagnosis: Biopsy, bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, lumbar puncture, ultrasound, computed tomography scan (CT or CAT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scan may be performed.

Treatment for pediatric cancer varies based on the type and stage of cancer but often includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Newer approaches such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy are also being integrated into treatment plans, offering hope for more effective outcomes with fewer side effects. The Pediatric Cancer Program at our facility, one of the largest childrens oncology care centres in Mumbai, provides state-of-the-art treatment options in a child-friendly environment. Our Paediatric Oncologist and multidisciplinary team collaborates closely with families to tailor treatment strategies that align with each child's unique needs and circumstances.

Experts at our Centre for Cancer provide comprehensive paediatric cancer care in Mumbai equipped with the most advanced technology. We are one of the most renowned paediatric cancer treatment hospitals in Mumbai and are committed to delivering comprehensive treatment and support, ensuring that children diagnosed with cancer receive the highest quality care possible.

Pediatric oncologists possess specialized training and expertise tailored to treat cancer in children. Unlike regular oncologists, who primarily focus on adult patients, pediatric oncologists understand the unique physiological and developmental aspects of children. This specialization allows them to develop targeted treatment plans that consider the long-term effects of therapies on growth, development, and overall health. Reach out to experts at one of the best paediatric cancer care hospitals in Mumbai. At our Centre for Cancer, our pediatric oncology team is dedicated to providing holistic care that encompasses the medical, emotional, and psychological needs of young patients and their families.

• Biggest Stem Cell Transplant unit in Western India
• Our PICU (10 beds) is a tertiary care referral centre for various PICUs across Mumbai and the surrounding region and well-equipped to deal with oncological emergencies.
• Kokilaben Hospital performed a Stem Cell Transplant procedure on a six month old baby,the youngest to have such a procedure in India.
• MRD (minimal residual disease) monitoring has led to changes in outcome in paediatric leukaemia.

The outcomes in paediatric cancers are, in general, much better compared to that in adults. The five-year survival rates for the more common paediatric cancers are:

There are simple things you can do to decrease risk of child cancer.

• Don´t smoke.
• Breastfeed longer.
• Get them to eat their greens and fruits.
• Get medical checkups done with your Paediatrician regularly.
• Reduce salt and sugar intake.
• Don´t use in-home herbicides or pesticides.
• Avoid antibiotics

Bone Marrow Transplant for a Six-Month-Old

• Background and Diagnosis
  A six-month-old baby was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, one of the common cancers seen during infancy and known to originate from the nerve cells. The baby underwent surgery and eight cycles of chemotherapy to shrink the tumour at another reputed hospital in Mumbai. However, because that hospital does not perform bone marrow transplants in children below the age of one (owing to the lack of a full-fledged paediatric department and ICU), the family approached Kokilaben Hospital.
• Treatment
  An autologous transplant, where the patients own stem cells are removed to save them from getting destroyed before a high-dose chemotherapy or radiation treatment, was advised. At least 10 specialists from different fields of paediatrics, including cardiologists and intensivists, stood guard in the hospital room for hours as the stem cells were being collected from the baby. We wanted to be prepared for any eventuality. The infants blood pressure was being monitored second by second. The team repeated the process on the second day and collected enough stem cells to proceed with the transplant. The procedure was then carried out successfully.

• Outcome
  According to the babys mother, the child has been recovering well after the procedure.