Childhood Cancer Foundation Information for Educators and Teachers

Types of Childhood Cancer

Sarcomas

Cancerous tumours involving the bones and soft tissues (e.g. muscles, tendons, fat). Below is a listing of bone and soft tissue sarcomas:

Type		Description		Treatment

Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer )		Most common type of bone sarcomas in children and the sixth most common malignancy in children. These tumours often are located at the growing end of the long bones of the extremities, close to the joints. This was the type of cancer that Terry Fox had. Most often seen between the ages of 10 and 25.		Treatment involves chemotherapy and surgery. Radiation may be used in some cases. Surgery may involve limb saving or amputation.


Ewing's Sarcoma (Bone Cancer)		Less common primary bone cancer that often appears in the middle of the bone. Common sites include the hipbones, thighs, upper arms and ribs. Most often seen between the ages of 10 and 25.		Chemotherapy with surgical removal of tumour, if possible. Radiation may be used in some cases.


Rhabdomyosarcoma (Soft Tissue Sarcoma)		Less common primary bone cancer that often appears in the middle of the bone. Common sites include the hipbones, thighs, upper arms and ribs. Most often seen between the ages of 10 and 25.		Chemotherapy with surgical removal of tumour, if possible. Radiation may be used in some cases.