BANDofPARENTSbound by hope
BANDofPARENTSbound by hope
| In the 1980s, fewer than 5% of children diagnosed with high risk neuroblastoma survived. Although intensified chemotherapy and radiation treatments improved the chances of killing this vicious cancer, many children suffered severe side effects--including developing other forms of cancer caused by the treatments themselves. In 1987, the MSKCC team began treating children with 3F8, a monoclonal antibody developed by Dr. Cheung. 3F8 can attach to neuroblastoma cells and kill them, and can also train the child’s own immune system to attack and kill neuroblastoma. In the last 2 decades, 3F8 treatment notably improved survival, without lasting side effects. Today, 80 percent of children with high risk neuroblastoma treated at MSKCC from diagnosis achieve remission. More than 50% of these patients are expected to remain in remission after consolidation with 3F8/GMCSF immunotherapy. In this section you will find links to information about MSKCC and their expertise in treating children with neuroblastoma. Approach & Expertise Each year, 80 or more patients come to Memorial Sloan-Kettering seeking treatment for neuroblastoma -- more than any other hospital in the country. As the number of new patients increases, physicians here continue to explore new treatment options. Team of Experts The medical staff of the Neuroblastoma Program consists of four board-certified pediatric oncologists, four nurse practitioners trained in pediatric oncology, and two research nurses skilled in biologics. Symptoms Neuroblastoma's first symptoms are often vague and may include fatigue and loss of appetite. Later on, symptoms depend on where the tumor takes root within the body. Diagnosis & Staging Diagnosis is made using either a biopsy of the tumor or the results of urine and bone marrow tests. The treatment each child receives depends on the age at diagnosis, tumor location, stage of disease, and tumor biology. Treatment Neuroblastomas are highly diverse in their behavior. Some will go away without any treatment, and others can be cured by surgery alone. But half of these tumors spread quickly to the bone and bone marrow and may require chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplantation, or immunotherapy. Innovative Treatments We have a great deal of experience using the latest therapies to treat all stages and types of neuroblastoma, including the most advanced and aggressive forms. MSKCC Clinical Trials A continually updated listing of Memorial Sloan-Kettering's current clinical trials for neuroblastoma. Treatments Offered at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Q & A Frequently asked questions about the various treatment options for children with neuroblastoma. 3F8 Monoclonal Antibody Therapy Q & A Frequently asked questions about 3F8 monoclonal antibody therapy for neuroblastoma. Selected Readings Peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters by staff of the Neuroblastoma Program, arranged by subject. |
BANDofPARENTS bound by hope
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