Unusual Cancers Of Childhood

Expert-reviewed information summary about the treatment of unusual cancers of childhood.Unusual Cancers of Childhood (PDQ®): TreatmentUnusual Cancers of Childhood Treatment

General Information
The tumors discussed in this summary are many and different, and the discussion is arranged in descending order from tumors of the head and neck to tumors of the urinary system and skin. All of these cancers are rare enough that most pediatric hospitals might see fewer than two cases in a year. Most of these tumors are more frequent in adults with cancer; thus, much of the information about these tumors may also be sought through sources relevant to adults with these tumors.

Head and Neck Cancers
Head and neck cancers include cancers of the nose and throat, thyroid tumors, mouth cancer, salivary gland cancer, cancer of the larynx (or voice box), and respiratory tract. These cancers are discussed below.

Cancer of the Nose and Throat
Cancers that start in the lining of the nasal cavity and throat are called nasopharyngeal cancers. The incidence of this tumor is approximately 1 in 100,000 persons younger than 20 years in the United States.