Neural Tumors ProgramOur Neural Tumors Program – one of the country’s largest – offers the latest, research-based diagnostic and treatment options for brain and spinal cord tumors, neuroblastoma and retinoblastoma. Brain TumorsThe Center’s brain tumor program is one of the largest pediatric treatment and research programs in North America, treating an average of 120 new patients with childhood brain tumors each year. Our physician leaders are dedicated to improving the survival rate of young children with brain tumors without using radiation therapy, which can cause severe and irreversible damage to intellectual functioning. The Center is the headquarters for an international clinical trial investigating alternatives for children with malignant brain and rare germ cell tumors. More about our Brain and Spinal Tumors Program NeuroblastomaOur physician-scientists developed today’s standard treatments for neuroblastoma, the second most common solid tumor in children. Treatment for neuroblastoma, which most often begins in early childhood, depends on risk groups, such as the
Our physician-scientists lead nationwide clinical trials into innovative alternatives for children who fail to respond to the standard therapy, which is a mix of high-dose chemotherapy, radiation, retinoic acid and stem cell transplantation. One of the most promising drugs under investigation is fenretinide, a synthetic relative of vitamin A that appears to be effective against a number of cancers. Its use in neuroblastoma and childhood leukemia was developed at our hospital. RetinoblastomaNearly one-fifth of all cases of retinoblastoma nationwide are treated here at Childrens Hospital, where the international standards of care were developed. This rare cancer of the eye typically strikes infants and children under the age of five. Although retinoblastoma is curable if detected early, two-thirds of patients with advanced disease need to have at least one eye removed. Current treatment includes chemotherapy, radiation and laser surgery. Our physicians are exploring next-generation therapies, including new drugs and a technique to deliver chemotherapy directly into the eye via an inverted “cup,” which potentially could make treatment more efficient. Our scientists developed today’s standard treatments for neuroblastoma and for Rb. CollaborationMany different departments collaborate in caring for our neural tumor patients:
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