Cancer Services
Leukemia and Lymphoma Program

Childhood leukemia & lymphoma program

Leukemia is cancer of the blood cells when the bone marrow, where blood cells are made, makes cells that are abnormal in growth and function. The three general types of leukemias found in children are acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML).

Lymphoma is cancer of the lymphatic system. Lymph nodes, located throughout the body, are responsible for filtering waste products and damaged cells out of the body. The nodes are connected through a system of blood vessels. The two main categories of lymphoma found in children are Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

The leukemia and lymphoma program at Children’s Minnesota is the largest in Minnesota and one of the largest in the upper midwest. We diagnose and treat all types of leukemias and lymphomas in children including:

Why choose Children’s Minnesota for childhood leukemia and lymphoma treatment?

  • One of the largest leukemia and lymphoma programs in the region. Children’s Minnesota provides care for the majority of children with leukemia & lymphoma in the state of Minnesota and is also the trusted regional treatment center for many children in North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin.
  • Access to the latest treatment options. We provide active participation and access to the most current national and international treatment protocols for chemotherapy and radiation that allow team members to treat childhood leukemia and lymphoma with new experimental drugs. Through these memberships and participation your child is assured access to the most current treatment options.
  • Experts work together for your child. Our multidisciplinary team includes pediatric specialists from a wide variety of disciplines, including radiation oncology, surgery, anesthesia, pain management, psychology, pharmacy, exercise medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition, and others.
  • Physical therapists specialized in  pediatric cancer care and chemotherapy related issues work in the clinic with the team and your child to promote normal motor development during treatment and recovery.
  • Neuropsychological resting and the school re-entry program offer testing, support and practical recommendations for your child and their school. Neuropsychologists work proactively with patients, families, and schools to help patients reach their maximum intellectual and social potential.
  • Second opinions for children not seen in our program. At Children’s Minnesota, we provide consultation services for children with leukemia and lymphoma who are not seen in our program but would like input from our expert team. If you or your child’s doctor would like us to review your child’s case, you may arrange to have health records and test results for your child sent to us. The child does not need to live in the area or be seen in our clinic.
  • Who treats leukemia and lymphoma at Children’s Minnesota?