There are an estimated 12,000 newly diagnosed children with cancer each year in the U.S. For the most part, we do not know what causes childhood cancers. Childhood cancer is rarely hereditary, and it is important that parents understand there is nothing you or your child could have done to prevent the illness.

How do you make a cancer diagnosis?
The team of doctors taking care of your child at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Children's Hospital Boston will want to be very sure about the type of cancer your child has and where it can be found in the body. In general, we perform a biopsy to collect a tissue sample used to determine the specific type of cancer. Although preliminary results from a biopsy are usually available within a few days, final results may take much longer because additional special tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

We will use many different types of tests to determine where cancer is present within the body. Some of these tests provide images such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT) scans, positron emission tomography (PET) scans, ultrasounds and X-rays. Other tests involve collecting body fluids (like blood, spinal fluid or urine) or a bone marrow sample to look for cancer cells. During this time, doctors may also order tests to ensure organs, including the heart, lungs or kidneys, are healthy before treatment is started.

All tissue samples collected from biopsies, body fluid and bone marrow samples are analyzed by our pediatric pathologists to determine the presence and type of abnormal cells.

After we complete all necessary tests, our team of pediatric cancer experts meets to review and discuss all of the resulting information to be certain about the kind of cancer, the location(s) of the cancer, and the overall health of your child. This review of all the information is critical because the results of one test may influence the interpretation of a test that was done earlier. Our team will then meet with you and your family to discuss the diagnosis and outline the best treatment options.

Often these conversations take place over many days as more information becomes available. Sometimes you will meet only with pediatric oncologists. In other cases, you may also meet with other experts such as pediatric surgeons or pediatric radiation oncologists. During this time, you will meet the staff pediatric oncologist who will be your primary oncologist during treatment. You may also meet a pediatric hematology/oncology fellow or nurse practitioner who will be working with your staff physician.