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Interventional oncology in children: Where are we now?
Premal Amrishkumar Patel1,2, Fernando Gómez Muñoz3,4
1Interventional Radiology, Radiology Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK.
Insights
Paediatric interventional oncology (IO) needs more specific data, as adult approaches are suboptimal for distinct childhood cancers. This review highlights current uses and future opportunities for IO in treating paediatric cancers.
Area of Science:
- Paediatric Oncology
- Interventional Radiology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Paediatric interventional oncology (IO) development is hindered by a lack of specific outcome data.
- Reliance on adult IO experiences is suboptimal for unique paediatric tumour types like neuroblastoma and sarcomas.
- Paediatric interventional radiology frequently uses adapted or off-label techniques, impacting outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current indications for interventional radiology in paediatric cancer care.
- To emphasize the role of locoregional approaches in paediatric oncology.
- To identify progress and future opportunities in paediatric IO.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of interventional oncology applications in paediatric cancer.
- Analysis of current indications from biopsy to supportive care.
- Exploration of disease-specific advancements and challenges.
Main Results:
- Interventional radiology (IR) plays a role in paediatric cancer diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care.
- Locoregional approaches are crucial for managing paediatric tumours.
- Progress has been made in specific paediatric oncological diseases, with identified areas for advancement.
Conclusions:
- There is a critical need for paediatric-specific data to advance interventional oncology.
- Tailored interventional techniques and research are essential for improving outcomes in childhood cancers.
- Further investigation into locoregional therapies holds promise for paediatric cancer treatment.
Abstract:
Paediatric Interventional Oncology (IO) lags behind adult IO due to a scarcity of specific outcome data. The suboptimal way to evolve this field is relying heavily on adult experiences. The distinct tumour types prevalent in children, such as extracranial germ cell tumours, sarcomas, and neuroblastoma, differ strongly from those found in adults, presenting a completely different biological behaviour. Compounding this challenge, paediatric interventional radiology often employs adapted or off-label techniques, potentially compromising optimal outcomes. This review outlines the present indications for interventional radiology in paediatric cancer, from biopsy to supportive care, including complication management. It emphasises the role of locoregional approaches, and explores the status of common paediatric oncological diseases, highlighting areas where IO has made progress identifying potential opportunities for future advancements in this evolving field.
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