Finding and Diagnosing Cancer in Children

Most cancers in children are found because a parent or doctor notices a sign or symptom the child is having. Some are found while getting tests for a different problem.

There are no recommended screening tests for children at average risk of cancer, since it is so rare. If a child has certain inherited gene mutations that increase their risk for cancer, their doctor might suggest talking to a genetic counselor to see if genetic testing is right for them.

Possible signs and symptoms of cancer in children

Common signs and symptoms of childhood cancer include:

• A new lump or swelling, especially on the neck, chest, armpit, or belly
• Extreme fatigue for no reason
• Easy bruising or bleeding or bleeding that won’t stop
• Pain without a clear cause
• Limping or stumbling
• Unexplained fever or illness that doesn’t go away
• Frequent headaches, often with vomiting
• Sudden eye or vision changes
• A milky white color behind the center of the eye
• Unexplained weight loss

Like many adult cancers, the most common signs and symptoms of cancer in children may be hard to notice because they are also common in other illnesses or injuries. If there’s a sign or symptom that isn’t getting better or going away (even one not on this list) take them to a doctor to get checked. Most of these symptoms are much more likely to be caused by something other than cancer.

You can find more information about signs and symptoms by choosing a specific cancer type.

Seeing a doctor

The doctor will ask about the child's medical history and signs or symptoms. Along with a physical exam, the doctor might suggest blood or imaging tests (such as an x-ray).

If something like a lump is found, the doctor might want to get a sample of the lump to test it for cancer. This procedure is called a biopsy. Biopsies can be done in many ways depending on where the lump is found.

If cancer is found, you can learn about coping and moving forward in How a Childhood Cancer Diagnosis Affects the Family.