If your child has been diagnosed with neuroblastoma, the first thing you’ll hear is that there are many ways to fight it. The good news is that doctors have a solid toolbox, and the right mix depends on the tumor’s size, location, and stage. Below we break down the most common approaches, why they matter, and what newer ideas are showing promise.
Surgery is usually the first step when the tumor can be taken out safely. Surgeons aim to remove as much of the cancer as possible while sparing healthy tissue. If the tumor is near vital organs, they may leave a small piece behind and treat it later with other methods.
Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to shrink the tumor before surgery or to kill any remaining cells afterward. Kids often receive a combination of drugs in cycles, and doctors monitor blood counts closely to manage side effects.
Radiation therapy targets stubborn spots that surgery or chemo couldn’t clear. It’s delivered in precise doses to minimize damage to surrounding tissue. Radiation is especially useful for tumors that have spread to bone or soft tissue.
Immunotherapy trains the immune system to recognize and attack neuroblastoma cells. One approved drug, dinutuximab, binds to a protein on the cancer cells and flags them for destruction. Parents report fewer long‑term side effects compared with traditional chemo, but it can cause pain and fever during treatment.
Radioactive MIBG therapy involves a molecule that homes in on neuroblastoma cells and carries a small amount of radiation. Doctors give it by injection, and the radioactivity travels straight to the tumor, sparing most healthy tissue. It works well for children whose tumors take up MIBG on scans.
Stem‑cell (bone‑marrow) transplant follows very high‑dose chemotherapy. The patient’s own or a donor’s stem cells are infused to rebuild the blood‑forming system after the chemo wipes it out. This aggressive step is reserved for high‑risk cases but can improve survival rates.
Targeted therapies focus on specific genetic changes in the cancer. Drugs that block ALK mutations or GD2 antibodies are being tested in trials and have shown encouraging early results.
Finally, clinical trials give access to the newest treatments before they’re widely available. Talk to your oncologist about any trial that matches your child’s tumor profile – many families find hope in experimental options.
Choosing the right plan isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all decision. Doctors weigh the tumor’s risk level, the child’s age, and potential side effects. Open communication with the medical team, a clear understanding of each option’s goals, and support from family and counseling services can make the journey smoother.
Remember, the landscape of neuroblastoma care is always evolving. Staying informed, asking questions, and leaning on trusted specialists will help you navigate the best treatment path for your child.
Explore the role of surgery in neuroblastoma care, from when it's used to risks, outcomes and how it fits with chemo, radiotherapy and newer therapies.
