Pediatric cancers are distinct from adult cancers and often occur in different forms. Below are the most common types of pediatric cancer:

Leukemia

1. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
   • Description: The most common type of cancer in children, affecting the white blood cells. It progresses rapidly and requires prompt treatment.
   • Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute
2. Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
   • Description: A less common form of leukemia in children, characterized by the rapid growth of abnormal white blood cells in the bone marrow.
   • Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute

Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors

3. Medulloblastoma
   • Description: The most common malignant brain tumor in children, usually located in the cerebellum.
   • Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute
4. Gliomas
   • Description: A broad category that includes astrocytomas, ependymomas, and oligodendrogliomas. These tumors arise from glial cells in the brain or spinal cord.
   • Sources: American Cancer Society, Mayo Clinic

Neuroblastoma

5. Neuroblastoma
   • Description: A cancer that develops from immature nerve cells found in several areas of the body, most commonly the adrenal glands.
   • Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute

Lymphoma

6. Hodgkin Lymphoma
   • Description: A cancer of the lymphatic system, marked by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells. It is more common in adolescents than in younger children.
   • Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute
7. Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)
   • Description: A diverse group of blood cancers that includes Burkitt lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and lymphoblastic lymphoma.
   • Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute

Bone Cancers

8. Osteosarcoma
   • Description: The most common type of bone cancer in children and adolescents, typically occurring in the long bones, such as the arms and legs.
   • Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute
9. Ewing Sarcoma
   • Description: A rare cancer that occurs in bones or in the soft tissue around the bones, often affecting the pelvis, chest wall, or long bones.
   • Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute

Other Cancers

10. Wilms Tumor (Nephroblastoma)
    • Description: A kidney cancer that primarily affects children and is most commonly diagnosed in children aged 3 to 4 years.
    • Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute
11. Rhabdomyosarcoma
    • Description: A cancer that develops from skeletal muscle cells that have failed to fully differentiate. It can occur in various locations in the body.
    • Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute
12. Retinoblastoma
    • Description: A cancer that starts in the retina, the light-sensitive lining inside the eye. It most commonly affects young children.
    • Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute

Conclusion

Pediatric cancers encompass a wide range of malignancies that can affect various parts of the body. Early detection and specialized treatment are crucial for improving outcomes. Understanding the different types of pediatric cancer can help in recognizing symptoms and seeking timely medical care.

Further Reading

• American Cancer Society: Childhood Cancers
• National Cancer Institute: Childhood Cancers
• St. Jude Children's Research Hospital: Types of Childhood Cancer
• Mayo Clinic: Pediatric Cancer

These resources provide comprehensive information on the various types of pediatric cancers and their specific characteristics.