Advances in the treatment of pediatric solid tumors: A 50-year perspective

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Oncology
• Cancer Research
• Molecular Pathology

Background:

• Over 10,000 children (0-14) and 5,000 adolescents (15-19) are diagnosed with cancer annually in the U.S.
• Pediatric solid tumors represent a significant portion of childhood cancers.
• Specific types include neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, and hepatoblastoma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric solid tumors over the past 50 years.
• To highlight improvements in survival rates for common pediatric solid tumors.
• To note the identification of a molecular driver in fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical data and advancements in pediatric oncology over the last five decades.
• Analysis of progress in imaging, molecular pathology, and staging.
• Evaluation of multidisciplinary treatment approaches and surgical techniques.

Main Results:

• Significant progress has been made in imaging, molecular pathology, and risk assessment for pediatric solid tumors.
• Multidisciplinary treatment strategies have led to improved survival rates.
• The molecular driver for fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma has been identified.

Conclusions:

• Substantial progress in pediatric oncology has improved outcomes for children and adolescents with solid tumors.
• Continued research in molecular pathology is crucial for further advancements.
• The identified molecular driver for fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma opens new avenues for targeted therapies.