What Are Pediatric Solid Tumors?
Pediatric solid tumors are abnormal growths of cells that form masses in various parts of a child's body, excluding leukemias and lymphomas. These tumors can be benign or malignant and often require specialized treatment due to their unique behavior in children compared to adults. Common types include brain tumors, neuroblastoma, and Wilms' tumor, with treatment approaches combining surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation tailored to the tumor type and stage.
Major Tumor Types
- Brain Tumors
- Neuroblastoma
- Wilms' Tumor
- Retinoblastoma
- Soft Tissue Sarcoma
- Osteosarcoma (Bone Tumor)
Warning Signs
- White pupil or eye changes (retinoblastoma)
- Persistent bone pain or swelling
- Abdominal mass or swelling
- Morning headaches or vomiting (brain tumors)
- Unexplained weight loss or fever
- Neurological changes (e.g., seizures, balance issues)
Multidisciplinary Treatment
- Tumor-specific chemotherapy protocols tailored to tumor type and stage
- Advanced surgical techniques, including limb-sparing procedures
- Proton beam therapy for precise targeting of tumors, minimizing damage to healthy tissue
- Immunotherapy for high-risk neuroblastoma, improving survival rates
- Genetic testing for RB1 mutations in retinoblastoma to guide treatment
