Nursing management of the infant with a congenital malignancy

Early recognition of infant malignancy: the five most common infant cancers

The incidence of cancer in children is rising in the U.S. Although cancer in the first year of life is relatively rare, understanding the early signs and symptoms of and the historical factors associated with most common infant cancers is essential for providing optimal care to these infants and their families. Neonatal nurses and nurse practitioners play a pivotal role in early recognition and detection of infant malignancy. This article reviews the incidence of and historical factors associated with infant cancers and discusses clinical presentations and available diagnostic images as well as screening tools for the five most common types of infant malignancy.

Neonatal cancer: a clinical perspective

The diagnosis of a neonatal malignancy, while rare, requires complex knowledgeable care from members of the health care team. The neonatal intensive care nurse plays an important role on that team. The types of malignancies found in neonates differ from those in older children, as do the neonate's responses to treatment. A review of the presentation, diagnosis, and management of the more common types of neonatal malignancies provides the context for consideration of the nurse's role in providing specialized care to neonates with cancer.