Neuroblastoma

Description:

This book addresses neuroblastoma, a type of embryonic tumor derived from neural crest cells and one of the most frequent extra-cranial solid tumors in children. However, the term also describes a heterogeneous group of tumors, the prognosis of which can differ greatly according to age, stage and biology. Some forms undergo spontaneous regression, and some are cured by surgery alone or after chemo-reduction, while others exhibit extremely aggressive behavior. Their successful treatment is one of the best examples of tailored medicine, which involves close collaboration between pediatric surgeons, pediatric oncologists, radiologists, nuclear medicine specialists, biologists, oncogeneticists and radiotherapists.    The book pursues a unique approach, as it combines most essential insights from all of these fields, together with key information regarding epidemiology, physiopathology and palliative care. The respective chapters were written by the leading international experts on neuroblastoma, and present the latest advances in terms of research, surgical approaches and medical treatments. The book offers an invaluable resource to all pediatric surgeons, pediatricians, oncologists, students, researchers and all others involved in neuroblastoma management who want to benefit from their colleagues’ expertise.  

Table of Contents:

Part I. Epidemiology, Biology and Pathology Assessment

1. Epidemiology

2. Biology of Neuroblastoma

3. Neuroblastoma Pathogenesis

4. Neuroblastoma Pathology

Part II. Imaging

5. Radiology

6. Image-Defined Risk Factors

7. Nuclear Medicine Procedures in Neuroblastoma

8. Radiotherapy for Neuroblastoma

Part III. Clinical Management

9. Spinal Canal Involvement in Peripheral Neuroblastic Tumors

10. Neonatal Neuroblastoma

11. Low- and Intermediate-Risk Neuroblastoma

12. High-Risk Neuroblastoma and Current Protocols

13. Immunotherapy

14. Prognostic Factors and Risk Stratification

Part IV. Surgery

15. Biopsy of Neuroblastoma

16. Surgical Techniques

17. Surgical Strategies for High Risk Neuroblastoma

18. Surgical Strategies for Neuroblastoma with Spinal Canal Involvement

19. Neuroblastoma: Minimally Invasive Surgery

20. Robotic Surgery for Neuroblastoma

21. Complications of the Surgical Management of Children with Neuroblastoma

22. Palliative Care