Atrt: Rare Aggressive Brain Cancer In Young Children
ATRT, or atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor, is a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer that primarily affects young children, particularly under the age of 3. Treatment for ATRT often involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The overall survival rate for ATRT is low, with only about 50% of patients surviving 5 years after diagnosis. However, advancements in treatment and research have shown promise in improving survival outcomes for children with ATRT.
Understanding Pediatric Cancer
Understanding Pediatric Cancer: A Guide for Concerned Parents
What is Pediatric Cancer?
Cancer is a dreadful disease that steals countless lives worldwide, but it takes a particularly cruel twist when it strikes our precious children. Pediatric cancer, as it’s known, refers to cancerous growths that occur in individuals under the age of 18.
How Prevalent is Pediatric Cancer?
While pediatric cancer is a relatively rare occurrence, it remains a heartbreaking reality for many families. In the United States alone, approximately 15,000 children are diagnosed with cancer annually. That equates to one in every 285 children.
Common Types of Pediatric Cancers
The types of cancer that afflict children differ from those in adults. Some of the most common pediatric cancers include:
- Leukemia: A type of blood cancer that originates in the bone marrow.
- Lymphoma: A type of cancer that affects the lymph nodes and lymphatic system.
- Brain tumors: Cancers that develop in the brain and spinal cord.
- Solid tumors: Cancers that form in tissues and organs, such as neuroblastoma, Wilms’ tumor, and bone cancer.
Organizations Dedicated to Pediatric Cancer
Numerous organizations are dedicated to researching and supporting children with cancer and their families. Some of these organizations include:
- Children’s Oncology Group (COG): A network of pediatric cancer centers.
- National Cancer Institute (NCI): A leading research institution in pediatric cancer.
- American Cancer Society (ACS): Provides support, information, and resources to families.
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: A renowned cancer treatment center for children.
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: A world-renowned pediatric cancer center.
Understanding Pediatric Central Nervous System Tumors
Pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors are a rare but serious group of cancers that occur in children’s brains and spinal cords. They can be scary, but it’s important to know that there are highly skilled doctors and treatments available.
Types of CNS Tumors in Children
The most common type of CNS tumor in children is called medulloblastoma, which usually grows in the back part of the brain. Another type is atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT), which is a fast-growing tumor that can occur in any part of the brain or spinal cord.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing a CNS tumor starts with a physical exam and imaging tests like MRIs or CT scans. Treatment options depend on the type and location of the tumor. They may include:
- Surgery: To remove as much of the tumor as possible.
- Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
Hope for the Future
While CNS tumors can be challenging, progress is being made. Researchers are studying new treatments that are less harmful and more effective. There are also many organizations that provide support to children and families affected by CNS tumors.