Pediatric Cancer Treatment in Noida, Delhi, India

Overview

Childhood cancer is rare, affecting about 1 in 10,000 children. Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming for both the child and their parents. It’s natural to feel anxious and stressed, but it’s essential to understand that most childhood cancers are treatable and, in many cases, curable. Typically, these cancers do not result from anything the child or parents did wrong, so there is no need for guilt or shame.

Childhood cancers can develop in various parts of the body, including bones, blood, and muscles. Common types include blood cancers like leukemia, cancers of the lymphatic system, brain and spinal cord tumors, and bone cancers (sarcomas). Thanks to advancements in medical science, over 80% of children diagnosed with cancer today can be cured, depending on the type of cancer. For instance, the cure rate for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and Wilms tumor can reach up to 90%, while Hodgkin lymphoma and germ cell tumors have a cure rate of nearly 95%.

Children’s healthcare needs differ from those of adults, and they require care from specialists trained in pediatric oncology. These specialists are responsible for treating all types of cancer in children, including leukemia, bone cancers, Wilms tumor, and brain and spinal cord tumors. With timely, appropriate, and comprehensive treatment, the majority of children with cancer can be cured and go on to live healthy, fulfilling lives.

Information and support are crucial for families navigating childhood cancer. Understanding the disease and treatment options can help alleviate confusion and prepare families for the journey ahead. Regular parent support group meetings offer a valuable opportunity for parents to connect with others who have faced or are currently facing similar challenges.

Types of Childhood Cancer

Primary and Secondary Cancer:

• Primary cancer refers to the original site where cancer begins.
• Secondary cancer, or metastasis, occurs when cancer cells spread from the primary site to other parts of the body. These secondary cancers are composed of the same type of cells as the primary cancer.

Leukemia:

• This cancer of the blood and bone marrow is the most common type of childhood cancer, accounting for one-third of all cases. Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are the most common types, with symptoms including fatigue, weight loss, bleeding, joint pain, and high fever. Because these cancers grow rapidly, they require immediate medical treatment, typically through chemotherapy.

Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors:

• These tumors are the second most common type of childhood cancer, representing about a quarter of all cases. They often occur in the lower parts of the brain, such as the cerebellum or brain stem, and symptoms include dizziness, double vision, severe headaches, vomiting, and difficulty walking or holding objects.

Lymphomas:

• Lymphomas begin in the lymph nodes and tissues and can spread to the bone marrow and other organs. Common symptoms include swollen lymph nodes under the neck or armpit, excessive weight loss, and fatigue. The two primary types of lymphoma in children are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Wilms Tumor:

• This cancer affects the kidneys and accounts for about 5% of childhood cancers. It typically occurs in children aged 3-4 years, causing symptoms such as abdominal swelling or a lump, loss of appetite, nausea, and fever.

Neuroblastoma:

• A cancer that primarily affects infants and young children, neuroblastoma accounts for about 6% of childhood cancers. It usually starts in the abdomen and can cause severe bone pain and fever.

Bone Cancers:

• Bone cancers make up about 3% of childhood cancers and most commonly affect older children and teenagers. The most common types are osteosarcoma, which often occurs in the long bones of the arms or legs, and Ewing sarcoma, which typically begins in the hip bones, ribs, shoulder blades, or leg bones.

Symptoms of Childhood Cancer

Cancer symptoms in children can be challenging to recognize because they often resemble common childhood illnesses or injuries. However, the following symptoms may indicate cancer and require immediate medical attention:

• Unusual lump or swelling
• Persistent fever or unexplained illness that doesn’t resolve
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Persistent pain in one area of the body, including bones, joints, or back
• Limping
• Persistent unexplained fever or illness that does not resolve.
• Frequent headaches, often with vomiting
• Changes in walking, balance, or speech
• Sudden eye or vision changes, including a white spot in the eye, new squint, or bulging eyeball
• Sudden, unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis of Childhood Cancer

Pediatric oncologists use a variety of tests to diagnose and stage childhood cancers. Confirmatory testing identifies the specific type of cancer, while staging determines the extent of the disease. Common diagnostic tests include:

• Blood and urine tests
• Imaging studies (ultrasound, MRI, CT scan, PET-CT scan)
• Bone marrow examination and lumbar puncture
• Biopsy

The accurate diagnosis is crucial to ensure the child receives the most appropriate treatment. While not all tests are necessary for every child, the specific tests conducted depend on the suspected type of cancer.

Treatment Options for Childhood Cancer

Surgery:

• Surgery is used to remove tumors when feasible.

Chemotherapy:

• Chemotherapy involves using drugs to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. It can be administered in various ways, including intravenously (IV), orally (PO), intramuscularly (IM), subcutaneously (SC), or intrathecally (IT). Chemotherapy is especially effective for treating cancers that have spread throughout the body. However, it may also impact healthy cells, resulting in side effects. Therefore, chemotherapy is often given in cycles to allow the body to recover between treatments.

Radiotherapy:

• Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells in a specific area of the body. Treatment is usually administered in daily sessions over a period of several weeks. The side effects of radiation therapy can include fatigue, skin changes, and loss of appetite.

Bone Marrow Transplantation:

• This procedure involves replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy cells. It is particularly useful in certain types of cancer or when cancer recurs.

Possible Side Effects of Treatment

Cancer treatment is intense and can cause side effects, but these vary from child to child. Common side effects include:

• Tiredness or lethargy
• Aches and pains, especially in the jaw and legs
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting, especially after chemotherapy
• Diarrhea
• Sores and ulcers in the mouth and throat
• Constipation
• Hair loss
• Low white blood cell counts (leukopenia), which can increase the risk of infection
• Extravasation (swelling, pain, and ulceration due to drug leakage)
• Anemia

These side effects are typically temporary and will resolve once treatment is complete.

Recommended Cancer Diet

Proper nutrition is vital during cancer treatment. The following dietary recommendations can help manage symptoms and support recovery:

Beverages:

• Boiled and cooled water
• Fresh fruit juice made at home
• Canned or packaged juices

Vegetables:

• Peeled and washed carrots and cucumbers
• Boiled vegetables
• Thoroughly washed and boiled tomatoes

Cereals:

• Toasted or wheat bread
• Homemade cake and biscuits
• Cereals like ragi, jowar, wheat, rice, and oats

Fruits:

• Skinned fresh fruits like bananas, pomegranates, papayas, oranges, watermelons, and musk melons
• Peeled and washed chikoo

Milk and Milk Products:

• Boiled milk
• Fresh homemade ice cream, curds & paneer

Frequently Asked Questions

How does chemotherapy affect a child’s growth and development?

Chemotherapy can temporarily affect growth and development, but most children catch up after completing treatment.

Is radiation therapy safe for children?

When carefully planned and administered, radiation therapy is safe for children.

What are the common types of childhood cancers?

Leukemia, brain tumors, neuroblastoma, lymphoma, Wilms tumor, malignant bone tumors, retinoblastoma, and germ cell tumors.

What are the side effects of chemotherapy in children?

Common side effects include hair loss, nausea, vomiting, low immunity, anemia, and potential organ effects, which are usually temporary.

Can childhood cancer recur after treatment?

While most childhood cancers are curable, there is a risk of relapse.

What is the likelihood of a cure or full recovery from cancer in children?

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment offer a high chance of cure, enabling children to lead normal lives.

This comprehensive approach to pediatric cancer treatment in Delhi, India, ensures that children receive the best possible care, with a focus on achieving long-term health and well-being.