The treatment of neuroblastoma, particularly high-risk neuroblastoma, involves a multi-modal approach, which includes intensive chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. A large meta-analysis involving over 1900 subjects found no statistically significant differences in 5-year event-free survival (EFS) or overall survival (OS) among different treatments, indicating that no single treatment stands out as the best option universally[1].
Current standard treatment for high-risk neuroblastoma typically includes intensive multi-agent induction chemotherapy, followed by surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, and autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT). Immunotherapy, particularly with anti-GD2 antibodies like dinutuximab, has also become a critical component of treatment, aiming to improve survival rates[1][2][4].
Recent advancements have also focused on targeted therapies and reducing treatment toxicity. For relapsed or refractory high-risk neuroblastoma, newer options like naxitamab have been approved, offering additional avenues for treatment[3].
Overall, the best treatment for neuroblastoma is highly individualized, depending on the specific risk classification and response to initial therapies. Ongoing research continues to explore novel treatments and combinations to improve outcomes for patients with this challenging condition[1][2][3].
Citations:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10453838/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK65747.2/?report=reader
[3] https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/EDBK_349783
[4] https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pediatrics/articles/10.3389/fped.2021.706800/full
[5] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772610X23001344