Treatment depends on the age, size and position of the tumour and whether it has spread. The treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy, or a combination of these.
Surgery
Children with stage I and II tumours, which can be completely removed will be treated with surgery alone providing the tumour has favourable features on biopsy. Where the tumour cannot be completely removed initially or has spread to other sites then the tumour will be removed after chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy
Treatment with anticancer drugs is used to destroy the cancer cells. It is usually given by injections and drips into a vein (intravenous infusion). The type of chemotherapy will vary in intensity and duration according to the stage of the tumour, special features of the tumour (tumour biology) and response. Some children will need high dose chemotherapy with a stem cell transplant. If your child takes part in a clinical trial, the treatment is explained in more detail in the specific trial information sheet. You will be given an outline of the treatment in the form of a ‘road map’.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy may be used after surgery or high dose chemotherapy to destroy any remaining tumour cells.
What is the prognosis?
The prognosis depends upon the stage of the tumour and its biology.
What are the possible long term effects?
A small number of children develop side effects many years later because of the treatment they have received. These may include growth problems, reduced fertility, hearing problems, impaired heart and kidney function and a small risk of developing a second cancer later in life.
About four years after treatment finishes we will transfer your child’s care to our long term follow-up clinic. Your child will be seen at regular intervals in this clinic, indefinitely, so that we can help with any long term effects of the treatment.
Sources of information and support
General information on chemotherapy, hair loss, nausea and vomiting is also available as part of the Royal Marsden Patient Information Series. Staff on the Children's unit will be able to give you information on organisations and other sources of support.