At Austin Pediatric Surgery, our skilled pediatric surgical oncology team provides compassionate, expert care for children with cancer. We specialize in treating a variety of tumors throughout the neck, chest, and abdomen, using a collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach tailored to your child’s unique needs. We work in close collaboration with the medical oncologist, radiologist, radiation oncologist, and pathologist to ensure that your child receives state of the art oncological care.
Neuroblastoma / Adrenal Tumors
What is it?
Neuroblastoma is a cancer originating from the adrenal glands or sympathetic nervous system and can occur anywhere throughout the body, but most commonly presents as a solid mass in the abdomen. Children can often appear sick when they are diagnosed and can sometimes have a palpable mass in the abdomen.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves physical exam, imaging (ultrasound, MRI, nuclear scans), and lab tests. Biopsies may also be required.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the tumor stage and is determined by a multi-disciplinary team of surgeons and oncologists.
Long-Term Care
Children require regular follow-ups with a pediatric oncologist with scheduled blood work and imaging tests.
Wilms Tumor (Nephroblastoma)
What is it?
Wilms tumor is a childhood tumor that comes from the kidney. Children with Wilms tumors are typically under age 5 years. Children are often well-appearing when they are diagnosed and can present with abdominal distension, constipation or a palpable mass in the abdomen.
Signs and Symptoms
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Abdominal bloating or pain
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Vomiting, weight loss, or blood in urine
Evaluation and Diagnosis
Tests include imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI), blood work, and urinalysis.
Treatment
Surgical removal of the kidney is often the first step, followed by chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.
Long-Term Care
Children require regular follow-ups with a pediatric oncologist with scheduled blood work and imaging tests.
Thoracic Tumors
What is it?
These tumors are located in the chest cavity, near the lungs, or on the chest wall, may be benign or cancerous.
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Signs and Symptoms
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Shortness of breath or chest pain
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Fever or chest wall mass
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Evaluation and Diagnosis
Imaging (X-rays, CT scans, or MRI) and biopsies are used to determine the tumor type and extent.
Treatment
Treatment may include surgery, observation, or chemotherapy, depending on the tumor’s nature. Minimally invasive techniques can be used when appropriate.