Cancers in children are often difficult to detect. There are many other conditions in children, such as normal illnesses, that produce similar symptoms as childhood cancer. It is important that parents have regular medical checkups for their children and be aware of any unusual symptoms that persist.

Signs and symptoms vary according to the location and type of cancer. In general, symptoms may include:

• An unusual mass or swelling.  Common locations for a mass include the abdomen, legs, arms and neck. If the mass is found near the kidneys, it may indicate Wilms tumor. A lump located on the lower spine may be a germ cell tumor.
  
  
• Muscle or joint pain. May be combined with swelling or stiffness. The pain may last for weeks and it is not associated with other factors, such as an injury or normal ‘growing’ pains. The pain may be located in an unusual place for a child, such as the lower back, indicating a possible spinal cord tumor.
  
  
• Frequent headaches. May continue for days and should be evaluated if they persist. Headaches may increase in frequency and become more severe with time. In the instance of a brain tumor, the headache may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting and motor problems.
  
  
• Sudden eye or vision changes. Blurred or double vision may indicate the presence of a brain or eye tumor.
  
  
• Unexplained paleness, fatigue or loss of energy. May be related to leukemia or tumors in vital organs.
  
  
• Sudden tendency to bruise or bleed without apparent injury may indicate leukemia.
  
  
• Prolonged, unexplained fever or sore throat.
  
  
• Rapid weight loss

These symptoms may be related to a number of medical conditions not associated with cancer. Parents must use their judgment when assessing the symptoms. They should consider the following:

• How severe are the signs and symptoms?
• How long have they lasted?
• Have they gotten worse over time?

Parents should have their children examined by a physician if they are uncertain about the appearance, severity or duration of any sign or symptoms.