Pediatric Cancer Treatment Options

At Banner Children’s, our pediatric cancer specialists provide expert, compassionate care tailored to your child’s unique needs. We combine proven medical treatments with personalized support to help your child and family through every step of the journey. 

How childhood cancer is treated: Pediatric cancer treatment options 

Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer your child has. Many children need a combination of treatments for the best results. Common options include: 

Chemotherapy for childhood cancer 

Chemotherapy uses medicine to kill cancer cells throughout the body. The drug type and treatment schedule depend on your child’s cancer type and stage. Chemotherapy can be used alone or with other treatments. While many children can return to daily activities between sessions, it’s important to manage side effects and allow time for rest. 

Bone marrow transplant for children (hematopoietic cell transplant) 

This treatment uses high doses of chemotherapy or radiation to destroy cancer cells, followed by healthy blood-forming cells to restore bone marrow. 

• Autologous transplant uses your child’s own cells. 
• Allogeneic transplant uses donor cells from bone marrow, blood or umbilical cord blood. 

Your child’s care team will determine which approach is best for their needs. 

Immunotherapy for childhood cancer (CAR-T cell therapy) 

These treatments use the body’s immune system to fight cancer. In CAR-T cell therapy, T cells - a type of white blood cell - are taken from your child’s blood. A special receptor called a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) is added in a lab to help the cells target cancer. The engineered cells are then returned to your child. This process can take several weeks because the cells must be prepared in a specialized laboratory. 

Surgery for pediatric cancer 

Surgery may be used to remove cancer, reduce the size of a tumor or check if the cancer has spread. The pediatric oncologist will recommend surgery if it’s the best option for your child’s diagnosis and stage. 

Radiation therapy for childhood cancer 

Radiation uses targeted energy to kill cancer cells in a specific area. The goal is to stop cancer cells from growing while protecting healthy cells. There are three main types: 

• External radiation – from a machine outside the body 
• Internal radiation – radioactive material placed inside the body near the cancer 
• Systemic radiation – radioactive drugs that travel through the blood 

The type used depends on the cancer’s location and type. 

Pediatric cancer clinical trials 

Banner Children’s participates in ongoing research to develop new treatments for children with cancer. Your child’s doctor will discuss any available clinical trials and whether your child is eligible to participate. 

Support and resources for children with cancer and their families 

A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. At Banner Children’s, we help turn fear into hope with resources and emotional support, including: 

• Counseling services for children and families 
• Cancer support groups to connect with other patients and survivors 
• Educational materials to help you understand your child’s treatment 

Ask your pediatric oncologist about available programs and local support groups. 

Why choose Banner Children’s for pediatric cancer care 

Our team communicates with you every step of the way so you understand your child’s treatment plan and options. We provide advanced medical expertise with the compassion your family deserves—helping your child face cancer with the best possible care and support. 

Next step: Request an appointment with a Banner Children’s pediatric cancer specialist to learn more about treatment options for your child.