Paediatric Oncology

Paediatric oncology at Mediclinic brings together the care a child with cancer needs, from the first tests through treatment and the years of follow-up that come afterwards. Our teams look after the whole child, so medical treatment and everyday life sit side by side, and you stay closely involved.

What is paediatric oncology?

Paediatric oncology is the care of cancer in children, from babies to teenagers. The cancers children develop differ from those in adults. The most common is leukaemia, a cancer of the blood, and tumours of the brain and spinal cord come next. Paediatric oncologists diagnose these and other childhood cancers, plan treatment, and stay involved for years to watch for late effects. It's a separate field from general child health and from paediatric haematology, which also treats non-cancer blood disorders.

When should you see a paediatric oncologist?

Have your child checked by a doctor if you notice:

• A new lump or swelling that does not go away
• Unusual tiredness, paleness or bruising
• A fever or infection that keeps coming back
• Bone pain or a limp with no injury
• Frequent headaches with vomiting, often in the morning
• A white glow or change in the look of one eye

If your child is having cancer treatment and develops a high temperature or other signs of infection, contact your child's hospital team straight away, as infection can become serious very quickly.

Most childhood cancers can't be screened for, and the early signs often look like everyday illnesses, so anything that won't settle is worth checking. If your doctor is concerned, they can arrange tests or refer your child to a paediatric oncologist, which is how most children reach one.

What to expect

The first appointment usually begins with questions about your child's health and a gentle examination. To find out what's going on, the doctor may arrange blood tests and a scan, such as an ultrasound or MRI. If the team suspects cancer, they take a small tissue sample, called a biopsy, or a sample of bone marrow, to confirm the diagnosis and its exact type before any treatment starts.

Treatment depends on the type of cancer and how far it has spread. It often combines chemotherapy with surgery or radiotherapy. Some children also need a stem cell transplant, which replaces damaged bone marrow. Throughout, the team supports your child's eating, comfort and schooling, and they'll explain each option so you can agree the next step together.

Paediatric oncology at Mediclinic

In Dubai, we treat children with cancer at Mediclinic City Hospital, whose cancer centre has a children's cancer ward. Your child's care is led by a paediatric cancer specialist. The wider team includes cancer nurses, a dietitian, a psychologist and a play therapist. We plan each step with you, and give equal weight to your child's medical care and their daily life. In Abu Dhabi, our paediatric team at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital looks after children on ongoing blood and cancer treatment. It also follows children long after treatment ends, checking for effects that can show up as they grow.