• A complete physical examination should include the groin area, the testicles, the skin and the nervous system. A rectal examination may also be performed to rule out a tumor in that area.
• Enlarged liver and/or spleen or a mass in the abdomen may indicate a tumor.
• Lumps in the neck that are firm, non-movable and have not responded to antibiotics may be due to lymphomas, leukemias and other cancers.
• The eyes may be examined, a procedure that requires the child's cooperation. A special instrument for looking into the eyes (ophthalmoscope) lets the physician see if there is increased pressure in the brain, which is often due to a brain tumor.
Blood and Other Tests
• A simple blood test examining the red cells , white cells and platelets will usually let the doctor decide whether acute leukemia is a serious possibility.
• Other tests such as a special type of urine test will be helpful in cases of suspected neuroblastoma.
Imaging
• X-rays and CT and MRI scans help the physician decide whether there are tumors in the brain, chest, abdomen or extremities.
