Anaplastic carcinoma

What are the latest innovations and research on anaplastic astrocytoma?

The pediatric neurosurgeons at Children’s Hospital Boston have access to the most recent technological advances such as the intra-operative MRI, which allow them to visualize the tumor as they operate with MRI scans, so they can remove as much of the tumor as possible. 

We also have access to high-tech imaging, such as PET, CT and functional MRI, which enable us to understand exactly where the tumor tissue is, and to map out surgeries and treatments that minimize risk to healthy brain tissue.

What is the latest research on anaplastic astrocytoma?

Clinical and basic scientists at both Children’s Hospital Boston and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute are conducting numerous research studies to help clinicians better understand and treat anaplastic astrocytoma. Dana-Farber/Children’s Hospital Cancer Center is a member of the Pediatric Oncology Therapeutic Experimental Investigators Consortium (POETIC), a collaborative clinical research group offering experimental therapies to patients with relapsed or refractory disease. It is also the New England Phase I Center of the Children’s Oncology Group. Children with progressive/recurrent low-grade glioma of the cerebellum may be eligible for experimental therapies available through these consortiums.

Our Pediatric Brain Tumor team recently initiated a Phase I gene therapy trial for a pediatric malignant glioma that will evaluate whether the use of AdV-tk followed by anti-herpetic prodrug in combination with radiation therapy will be safe. It will also determine if this immunosuppressive agent can be effectively delivered without disturbing standard therapy and if it will have anti-tumor activity in pediatric patients with malignant glioma.

For more information on current research, see the Brain Tumor Program.