Facing a serious illness like paediatric cancer is a challenging and emotional journey for both the child and their family. Although paediatric cancer is rare,but early and accurate diagnosis is crucial to begin effective treatment. Understanding how paediatric cancer specialists in Surat diagnose paediatric cancer can help families navigate this difficult time with greater clarity. This guide from experts at Blood and Cancer Institute (BCI), a one of the best cancer hospitals in Surat, outlines the step-by-step process, from recognising initial symptoms to confirming a diagnosis.

1. Recognising the Symptoms

The process begins when parents or guardians notice unusual symptoms in their child. Paediatric cancer can present in various ways, depending on the type and location of the cancer. Common symptoms include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, persistent pain, fevers, or lumps that don’t disappear. Since these symptoms can mimic less serious conditions, a thorough medical evaluation is essential.

Parents often take their child to a paediatrician after noticing these symptoms. The paediatrician plays a crucial role in identifying potential red flags that might suggest cancer. If the symptoms raise concerns, the doctor moves to the next step.

2. Initial Medical Examination

The paediatrician begins with a detailed medical history and a thorough physical examination. They inquire about the child’s symptoms, their duration, and any relevant family history of cancer or other serious illnesses. During the physical exam, the doctor checks for visible signs of abnormalities, such as swollen lymph nodes, lumps, or unusual bruising.

If the paediatrician suspects something serious, they order preliminary tests like blood tests, urine tests, or imaging studies (such as X-rays). These initial tests can provide vital clues and help determine if cancer is a possibility.

3. Laboratory Tests

Laboratory tests are a key part of the diagnostic process. A common test is a complete blood count (CBC), which measures different components of the blood, including red and white blood cells and platelets. Abnormalities in these counts can suggest leukaemia, a type of blood cancer common in children.

“In addition to CBCs, doctors may run other blood tests to check for specific markers or substances that could indicate cancer.”, share the cancer specialists in Surat. Elevated levels of certain enzymes or proteins, for instance, might point to liver or bone cancers. These tests help narrow down the possibilities and guide the next steps.

4. Imaging Studies

Imaging studies allow doctors to see inside the child’s body, providing a closer look at any tumours or abnormal growths. Common imaging techniques include:

- X-rays: Useful for detecting bone cancers or chest tumours.

- Ultrasound: Used to examine organs and tissues in the abdomen or pelvis.

- CT Scans: Provide detailed cross-sectional images of the body, helping to identify tumours not visible on standard X-rays.

- MRI: Offers highly detailed images, particularly of soft tissues like the brain or spinal cord.

- PET Scans: Show how tissues and organs are functioning and can detect cancerous activity in the body.

These imaging studies are crucial in determining whether a biopsy is needed.

5. Biopsy

A biopsy is often the definitive step in diagnosing cancer. It involves taking a small sample of tissue or cells from the suspected area for examination under a microscope. Depending on the location and type of suspected cancer, the biopsy can be performed in several ways:

- Needle Biopsy: A thin needle extracts tissue or fluid.

- Incisional Biopsy: A small section of the tumour is removed surgically.

- Excisional Biopsy: The entire tumour or growth is removed.

Pathologists analyse the biopsy sample to determine whether cancer cells are present, and if so, what type of cancer it is. This step is critical, as it confirms the diagnosis and helps guide treatment decisions.

6. Advanced Molecular Testing

In some cases, doctors may perform advanced molecular testing on the biopsy sample. These tests look for specific genetic mutations, markers, or changes in the DNA of the cancer cells. Understanding these molecular characteristics can provide valuable insights into the behaviour of the cancer and its potential response to different treatments.

For example, certain types of paediatric cancers may have specific genetic mutations that make them more responsive to targeted therapies. Identifying these mutations allows doctors to tailor the treatment plan to the child’s unique needs.

7. Staging the Cancer

Once the cancer is confirmed, doctors determine how advanced it is, a process known as staging. Staging helps define the size of the tumour, whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body, and the overall extent of the disease. Staging is vital because it influences the treatment plan and helps predict the prognosis.

8. Finalising the Diagnosis and Planning Treatment

After completing all tests, the medical team reviews the findings to finalise the diagnosis. At this point, they have a comprehensive understanding of the type, stage, and specific characteristics of the cancer. This information allows them to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to the child’s needs.

Doctors will discuss the diagnosis and treatment options with the child’s family, explaining the potential benefits, risks, and expected outcomes of each option. This is often a time of difficult decisions, but with clear information and support from the healthcare team, families can make informed choices.

Conclusion

Diagnosing paediatric cancer is a complex but systematic process that plays a crucial role in identifying the disease and determining the most effective treatment. Each step, from recognising symptoms to advanced molecular testing, is essential to understanding the cancer and providing the best cancer treatment in Surat. If you suspect your child might have symptoms of cancer, consult your paediatrician promptly. Early detection and diagnosis are key to achieving the best outcomes.