Treatment Options for Pediatric Brain Cancer
Brain cancer in children refers to the presence of abnormal malignant (cancerous) cell growth in the brain that forms masses or tumors. The specific goals of treatment may depend on factors such as the type and stage of the tumor, as well as the individual child's overall health.
Treatment for brain cancer in children may aim to:
- Curing the Cancer: Whenever possible, brain tumors in children are removed through surgery. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible without harming the brain. These surgeries can be long and extensive. If a significant portion of the tumor is successfully removed and it is a type that responds well to further treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, there is a possibility of achieving a cure.
- Slow Progression: In some cases, it may not be possible to completely remove the tumor through surgery or the tumor may be in a location that makes surgical removal difficult. In these situations, the focus shifts towards slowing down the progression of the cancer. This can be achieved through a combination of treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
- Control Symptoms: Even if a cure or complete tumor removal is not possible, treatment may still play a crucial role in controlling symptoms and improving quality of life for children with brain cancer. Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms such as seizures or brain swelling. Additionally, supportive care measures can be implemented to address any physical or emotional challenges that arise during treatment.
It's important to note that each child's case is unique, and treatment plans are developed based on individual needs and circumstances. Ongoing research and clinical trials are also exploring new therapies and approaches to improve outcomes for children with brain cancer.
When it comes to treating brain cancer in children, it's important to have a multidisciplinary team of specialized clinicians involved. This team will coordinate different disciplines and make decisions collectively. The initial leading role is often taken by a pediatrician, but it's crucial to consult with a specialist like a pediatric neurologist or neurosurgeon from the beginning of treatment.
The treatment plan for brain cancer in children may include:
- Surgery: Surgery is one of the main treatment options for brain cancer in children. It involves removing the tumor from the brain. The intended impact of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible and reduce its size. Reducing the size of the tumor may help reduce symptoms.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be recommended if surgery is not an option or unable to remove all of a tumor, or if the tumor has spread outside of the brain. Chemotherapy drugs can kill cancer cells or slow down their growth. They can be given orally or through an intravenous (IV) line. The intended impact of chemotherapy is to target and destroy cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy may be used with or after radiation therapy.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. It may be recommended if surgery is not feasible or as an additional treatment after surgery or chemotherapy. The intended impact of radiation therapy is to target and kill cancer cells in the brain.
- Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy drugs are designed to target specific markers on or inside cancer cells. They may be used for certain types of brain cancer in children with specific genetic changes. The intended impact of targeted therapy is to disrupt specific pathways that drive the growth and survival of cancer cells.
It's important to note that these potential treatments should be discussed with a healthcare team consisting of experts in treating brain tumors in children, including pediatric oncologists, neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, neurologists, and other specialists depending on the specific needs of the child.
Remember, each child's case is unique, and treatment decisions should be made through shared decision-making between the family and the healthcare team based on factors like the type and stage of cancer, lung function, genetic changes, age, and overall health of the child.