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.

 

Chapter 1. Epidemiology

Chapter 2. Biology of neuroblastoma
Chapter 3. Neuroblastoma pathogenesis
Chapter 4. Neuroblastoma Pathology
Chapter 5. Radiology
Chapter 6. Image Defined Risk Factors
Chapter 7. Nuclear Medicine procedures in Neuroblastoma
Chapter 8. Radiotherapy for neuroblastoma
Chapter 9. Spinal canal involvement in peripheral neuroblastic tumors
Chapter 10. Neonatal Neuroblastoma
Chapter 11. Low and intermediate risk Neuroblastoma
Chapter 12. High risk Neuroblastoma and current Protocols
Chapter 13. Immunotherapy
Chapter 14. Prognostic Factors and Risk Stratification
Chapter 15. BIOPSY OF NEUROBLASTOMA
Chapter 16. Surgical Techniques
Chapter 17. Surgical strategies for high risk neuroblastoma
Chapter 18. Surgical strategies for Neuroblastoma with spinal canal involvement
Chapter 19. Neuroblastoma - Minimally invasive surgery
Chapter 20. Robotic Surgery for Neuroblastoma
Chapter 21. Complications of the surgical management ofchildren with neuroblastoma
Chapter 22. Palliative Care.