Neuroblastoma Program
About us
Neuroblastoma is a cancerous tumor that occurs in nerve tissue of young children. It’s most commonly diagnosed in children younger than 5 and rarely occurs after the age of 10.
Dana-Farber/Children's Hospital Cancer Center (DF/CHCC)'s Neuroblastoma Program coordinates all aspects of care for children with neuroblastoma. Because neuroblastoma is rarely seen in adults, it’s important to work with a team of childhood specialists who exclusively focus on treating childhood cancers. We offer treatments for newly diagnosed patients as well as innovative therapies for children with relapsed and hard-to-treat neuroblastoma.
We are the only center in New England, and one of few in the country, offering I-131 MIBG Therapy for children with relapsed neuroblastoma. I-131 MIBG is a radioactive isotope that can be used to directly target and kill neuroblastoma cells. Our stem cell transplant unit includes a designated MIBG infusion room where children stay during treatment.
Our specialists are known for treating children with the most complex cases as well as for their expertise in delivering specialized treatments, such as stem cell transplantation. We integrate care from other pediatric subspecialties into your child's treatment plan.
Our coordinated care team includes:
- pediatric oncologists
- pediatric radiation oncologists
- pediatric surgeons
- pediatric oncology nurse practitioners
- other pediatric subspecialists as needed
- social workers
At DF/CHCC, we consider you and your child integral parts of the care team and not simply recipients of care. You and your team will work together to customize a plan of care for your child.
Following treatment, we provide long-term treatment and childhood cancer survivor support programs for our neuroblastoma patients through the David B. Perini, Jr. Quality of Life Clinic.
