Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays, to destroy cancer cells. Children with low-risk or intermediate-risk neuroblastoma may receive radiation therapy if surgery and chemotherapy haven't been helpful. Children with high-risk neuroblastoma may receive radiation therapy after chemotherapy and surgery, to prevent cancer from recurring.
Bone marrow transplant:
Children with high-risk neuroblastoma may receive a transplant using stem cells collected from bone marrow (autologous stem cell transplant). Before the bone marrow transplant, also known as stem cell transplant, your child undergoes a procedure that filters and collects stem cells from his or her blood. The stem cells are stored for later use.
Immunotherapy:
Immunotherapy uses drugs that work by signaling your body's immune system to help fight cancer cells. Children with high-risk neuroblastoma may receive immunotherapy drugs that stimulate the immune system to kill the neuroblastoma cells.
Newer treatments:
Doctors are studying a newer form of radiation therapy that may help control high-risk neuroblastoma. The treatment uses a radioactive form of the chemical metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG). When injected in to the bloodstream, the MIBG travels to the neuroblastoma cells and releases the radiation.
Courtesy: Mayo Clinic
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