Every child with pLGG has a different treatment experience
Lily, lives with pLGG. Lives for dancing.
What’s available to treat pLGG?
Each child's journey is unique. Depending on the tumor's location, surgery is usually the first step to remove as much of the tumor as possible, as safely as possible. If not removed entirely and/or the disease returns or progresses over time, additional surgeries or treatments may be needed.
All treatments come with risks. Be sure to speak with your care team about the pros and cons of each option.
Treatment Approaches
Watch and Wait
An observational period for certain slow-growing tumors like pLGG to see if the tumor changes in size
It means monitoring the condition closely and waiting to treat until there are signs of the tumor growing, development of new symptoms, or current symptoms getting worse
Surgery
Most used for patients when complete tumor removal is possible or when part of the tumor can be safely removed
May not be possible based on the tumor's location or size
There's a chance the tumor could come back and additional treatments may be needed
Chemotherapy
Often used after surgery or if surgery is not an option
Chemotherapy can cause harsh side effects and may require an uncomfortable port or IV
Toxicity and tolerability may be a concern, especially for infants and young children
Radiation
Usually reserved for specific patients who may have less treatment options
Can be effective, but often avoided due to potential risks of secondary cancers and cognitive decline
Targeted therapy = type of treatment that targets and attacks tumor cells with certain characteristics
A treatment option that targets and attacks tumor cells with certain genetic characteristics
Targeted therapies may be an option during any part of the pLGG treatment journey
Targeted therapies have unique side effects that are distinct from conventional chemotherapies used in pLGG management
Two examples of targeted therapies are:
MEK inhibitor = a type of targeted therapy that works on the MEK protein to inhibit or slow the growth of tumor cells — Inhibits “MEK”, a key protein in the MAPK pathway that impacts cell growth
BRAF inhibitor = type of targeted therapy that works on the BRAF protein to inhibit or slow the growth of tumor cells — Type I inhibits MAPK signaling for primarily V600E point mutations, whereas type II inhibits BRAF fusions and mutations in the MAPK pathway
Currently considering treatment?
Evaluating treatment approaches can be overwhelming. Ask your care team about all your options, including targeted therapy. You and your care team will work together to determine the right steps.
Don't be afraid to ask for a second opinion. It can offer confidence in your decision. Your care team may have recommendations or even know of major research hospitals that offer specialties for your child's specific tumor type or mutation.
Keep in mind
Navigating pLGG is a long journey. While surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapy may be effective treatment options, it is important to know that they can all have a lifelong impact on your child's life.
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