Childhood Cancers Rare

Definition

Rare childhood cancers are those that occur infrequently in children and adolescents, making up a small percentage of pediatric cancer diagnoses. These cancers can affect nearly any part of the body and are often difficult to study due to their low incidence.

Characteristics

Examples include adrenocortical carcinoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, chordoma, clear cell sarcoma of the kidney, and pediatric melanomas. These cancers often have unique behaviors and may be linked to genetic conditions. Because they are rare, diagnosis may be delayed, and treatment options are sometimes based on therapies used for similar adult cancers.

Diagnosis and Prognosis

Accurate diagnosis often requires advanced imaging, tissue biopsy, and genetic testing. Prognosis depends on the specific cancer type, stage, and how early it is detected. In some cases, the rarity of the disease makes establishing a standard prognosis challenging.

Treatment

Treatment plans vary by cancer type and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Enrollment in clinical trials is often encouraged due to limited existing data. A multidisciplinary team approach is essential to optimize outcomes.

Last Revised: 12 May , 2025