Most childhood symptoms are not cancer. However, persistent, unexplained or progressive combinations of symptoms should be assessed. Warning signs can include unusual pallor, bruising, prolonged fever, unexplained weight loss, persistent bone pain, a growing lump, recurring headaches with vomiting or changes in vision and balance.
These symptoms are more often caused by common childhood conditions than cancer. The purpose of a warning-sign page is not to create fear; it is to encourage appropriate assessment when a pattern is persistent, unexplained or worsening.
Not what we wish you'd ask. What you're actually thinking when you find this page.
Book a consultationUsually not. Bruises are common in active children, but unusual, frequent or unexplained bruising with other symptoms should be assessed.
No single test rules out every cancer. Testing depends on the symptom pattern and examination.
A persistent, growing, hard or unexplained lump should be medically assessed.
Yes. Fever, tiredness, enlarged lymph nodes and blood-count changes can occur with infections and other non-cancer conditions.
Yes, when clinically safe. Urgent treatment should not be delayed, and the reviewing specialist needs complete records.
Speak with Paediatric Haemato-Oncology or contact our team to organise the right starting point.