The child may also bruise easily. Some children also report feeling weak or lightheaded. From diagnosis to treatment, our experts provide the care and support you need, when you need it. The guidelines are clear that parent or carer concern about any changes should be taken into account. For reprint requests, please see our Content Usage Policy. Leukemia causes blood cells to reproduce at an accelerated rate, leading to severe overcrowding of blood cells. The following are answers to common questions about childhood leukemia: Doctors most frequently diagnose childhood leukemia between the ages of 14. Childhood leukaemia is a fast-growing disease and it is very important to receive effective treatment as soon as possible after diagnosis. Your childs doctor will also do a complete physical exam to look for any signs of leukemia, such as bruising, lumps, or an enlarged liver, spleen, or lymph nodes. Still, if your child has any of them, its important to have your child seen by a doctor so the cause can be found and treated, if needed. Leukemia In Children | Children's Hospital Colorado Hailey has handled her treatment remarkably well. And trying to absorb as much information as they can about it so that they can support Ethan and make educated decisions. Red blood cells carry oxygen around the body and if your child doesnt have enough of them, they might have these symptoms: A low number of blood cells called platelets in the blood can mean children are more prone to bruising than usual, even if they dont seem to have had any knock or bumps. While it is unrealistic and unhealthy to expect a newborn to sleep all night, parents can rest . The American Cancer Society offers programs and services to help you during and after cancer treatment. Signs and symptoms may include: Fevers Frequent cold and flu symptoms Frequent infections Swollen glands They have one other child (4yo) who they haven't ever left before so it might be a struggle to watch him but I suppose I could be there at hospital to entertain him whilst they focussed on their sick son. Learn more about this type of cancer in, Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a type of blood cancer and the most common cancer among children. Cancer is the leading cause of death in children under the age of 15. We avoid using tertiary references. You expect strep throat, stomach bugs, broken bones and stitches. By 12 months, toddlers are ready to switch from formula to cow's milk. Your Child Needs a Bone Marrow Transplant: What's Next? In general, common symptoms of childhood leukemia include: Fever. Treatment has also been improved since as well. unexplained weight loss. The result may be a feeling of fullness or discomfort, a lack of appetite, and subsequent weight loss. All rights reserved. If left untreated, your child's condition may worsen. Radiology Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Moffitt Malignant Hematology & Cellular Therapy at Memorial Healthcare System, Cancer Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics, Participant Research, Interventions, and Measurement Core (PRISM), Office of Undergraduate and Visiting Scholar Affairs, Community Outreach, Engagement, and Equity, Ambulatory Care Oncology Nurse Residency Program, Five Things to Know About Leukemia Treatment.