Types of children’s cancers

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Melanoma

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Melanoma occurs when abnormal cells in the skin grow in an uncontrolled way. Melanoma forms from melanocytes, the cells in the outer layer of the skin that form melanin (the pigment that gives your skin its colour). It is a serious form of skin cancer because it can spread from the skin to other parts of the body.

Risk factors

A risk factor is anything that increases a person’s chance of developing a certain condition or disease, such as cancer. In adults, lifestyle and environmental...

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Symptoms

Symptoms of melanoma may include:

  • a mole that
    • changes size, shape or colour
    • is more than one colour
    • has irregular edges or is not
    • ...
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Diagnosis

Your child will have a number of tests to investigate their symptoms and confirm a diagnosis of melanoma, including:

  • medical history and physical examination
  • medical
    • ...
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Treatment

Treatment and care of children with cancer is usually provided by a team of health professionals called a multidisciplinary team. Members of this team are...

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Support

Diagnosis of cancer in a child is a very difficult time for the child, their family and their friends. You might feel overwhelmed, scared, anxious...

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Chance of cure

Many children with cancer are cured of the disease. Children’s bodies have great capacity for healing. Also, huge improvements have been made in the treatment...

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Clinical trials

Researchers are trialling new ways to diagnose and treat different types of cancer. Your child may be invited to be part of a clinical trial...

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More information

For more information about childhood melanoma, see:

Melanoma treatment (PDQ®) for adults or Unusual cancers...

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published: Sunday, 23 August, 2015