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Paediatric Cancer Care at Konkan Cancer Hospital (KCH)
Paediatric Cancer Care at Konkan Cancer Hospital (KCH)
Overview of Paediatric Cancers
Paediatric cancer refers to cancers that develop in children and adolescents aged 0 to 18 years. Unlike adult cancers, which are often linked to environmental or lifestyle factors such as smoking or pollution, paediatric cancers usually stem from random genetic mutations that occur during early development, sometimes even before birth. These mutations cause abnormal cell growth and are typically not inherited. As a result, they can occur suddenly and without warning, making them challenging to predict or prevent.
At Konkan Cancer Centre, we specialize in diagnosing and treating childhood cancers with cutting-edge medical care, emotional support, and long-term follow-up services tailored specifically for younger patients.
How Does Paediatric Cancer Develop?
Paediatric cancer begins when normal, healthy cells in a child’s body undergo genetic changes, resulting in the loss of normal cell control. These mutated cells begin to divide uncontrollably, leading to the formation of tumors or abnormal blood cell activity. Not all childhood cancers result in solid tumors; some, like leukemia, affect the blood and bone marrow.
As these abnormal cells grow, they may crowd out healthy cells, impair organ function, and potentially metastasize to other parts of the body. While external factors like infections or radiation exposure may play a minor role, the majority of these genetic mutations occur randomly.
Causes & Risk Factors
The causes of paediatric cancer are not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified:
Genetic Syndromes: Conditions such as Down syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, and neurofibromatosis.
Family History: A hereditary predisposition can raise risk levels.
Environmental Exposures: Rarely, prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation or toxic chemicals.
Infections: Some cancers may be linked to viral infections, though this is uncommon.
Despite this, most paediatric cancers occur without any known risk factors. At Konkan Cancer Centre, we conduct genetic counseling and thorough screenings to identify any possible underlying causes.
Stages & Grades of Paediatric Cancers
Staging and grading help doctors evaluate the extent and aggressiveness of the cancer:
Stages I to IV:
Stage I: Localized, easier to treat
Stage II: Larger tumor but still confined
Stage III: Regional spread
Stage IV: Metastatic or advanced spread
Grading:
Low-grade: Cancer cells resemble normal cells
High-grade: More abnormal and aggressive
Accurate staging at Konkan Cancer Centre ensures each child receives an individualized treatment plan with the highest chances of recovery.
Common Types of Paediatric Cancer
Konkan Cancer Centre offers comprehensive treatment for all major types of childhood cancer, including:
Leukemia: Most commonly Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
Brain and Central Nervous System Tumors
Neuroblastoma: Originating in immature nerve cells
Wilms Tumor: A type of kidney cancer
Lymphomas: Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin types
Sarcomas: Such as rhabdomyosarcoma and osteosarcoma
Each type is managed with evidence-based protocols and compassionate care at our facility.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms may vary depending on the type and location of the cancer, but general warning signs include:
Persistent fatigue or lethargy
Unexplained weight loss
Frequent infections or fevers
Lumps or swelling that don’t resolve
Easy bruising or bleeding
Pain in bones, joints, or muscles
Headaches, dizziness, or vision changes
Developmental regression or delayed growth
Parents should monitor any concerning symptoms and consult our specialists promptly.
When to See a Specialist
Timely diagnosis is key. If your child exhibits any persistent or unexplained symptoms, consult a paediatric oncologist immediately. Early detection dramatically improves treatment success rates.
Konkan Cancer Centre offers same-day consultations and rapid diagnostic protocols to begin care without delay.
Diagnostic Tests & Procedures
Our comprehensive diagnostic workup includes:
Blood Tests: Complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry
Imaging: MRI, CT scan, X-ray, PET scan, Ultrasound
Bone Marrow Biopsy: To assess blood-related cancers
Tissue Biopsy: For solid tumors
Genetic Testing: When hereditary factors are suspected
Our child-friendly diagnostic environment minimizes anxiety and discomfort.
How Specialists Confirm a Diagnosis
At Konkan Cancer Centre, our multidisciplinary team reviews:
Physical exam results
Lab reports
Imaging findings
Pathology from biopsies
Molecular and cytogenetic data
This integrated approach ensures precise diagnosis and guides the most effective treatment strategy.
Gold Standard Test & Why
While multiple tests are involved, biopsy remains the gold standard, as it provides direct confirmation by identifying cancer cells under a microscope. When combined with imaging and lab tests, it delivers unmatched diagnostic accuracy.
Next Steps After Diagnosis
Following diagnosis, families are guided through:
Detailed treatment planning
Psychosocial counseling
Nutritional assessment
Coordination with school and home life
Our care navigators support families at every step of the treatment journey.
Available Treatments at Konkan Cancer Centre
We provide personalized, evidence-based therapies:
Surgery: For tumor removal or biopsy
Chemotherapy: Mainstay treatment for many cancers
Radiation Therapy: Including precise modalities like IMRT
Immunotherapy & Targeted Therapy: For advanced or resistant cancers
Stem Cell Transplantation: When indicated for leukemia and lymphoma
Our therapies prioritize long-term survival and minimal side effects.
Gold Standard Treatment
For most solid tumors, surgery followed by chemotherapy is considered the gold standard. This combined approach enhances survival rates and minimizes recurrence.
In leukemia cases, multi-agent chemotherapy remains the most effective protocol.
Specialist Consultation & Care Team
At Konkan Cancer Centre, our dedicated paediatric oncology team includes:
Paediatric oncologists
Oncology surgeons
Radiation oncologists
Pathologists & genetic counselors
Oncology nurses & dietitians
Child psychologists
We ensure compassionate, coordinated care across every domain.
Prognosis of Treatment
Treatment outcomes depend on:
Cancer type and stage
Patient age and overall health
Timeliness of treatment
Response to therapy
Thanks to advances in medicine, many childhood cancers now have survival rates exceeding 80%. Our mission at Konkan Cancer Centre is to ensure every child receives the best chance for recovery and a healthy life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Konkan Cancer Centre offers child-friendly counseling, play therapy, and parental support groups.
Yes, Konkan Cancer Centre connects families to NGOs, government schemes, and financial assistance programs.
Our dietitians provide individualized nutrition plans to help children stay strong through treatment.
Konkan Cancer Centre works with families and schools to ensure children stay on track academically.
Follow-ups help monitor for relapse, manage late side effects, and ensure healthy development.
Partner with Konkan Cancer Centre
Don’t face paediatric cancer alone. At Konkan Cancer Centre, we walk with you through every stage — from diagnosis to remission and beyond. Our dedicated Kids Cancer Center combines world-class treatment with empathy, ensuring your child receives the highest quality care.
Contact us today for a personalized consultation and let us support your child’s journey toward healing. Together, we can fight and beat childhood cancer.
