Our Summary

This research paper discusses a type of tumor called plexiform neurofibromas, which is a common symptom of a genetic disorder known as neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). For a long time, the only treatment available for these tumors was surgical removal. However, in 2020 and 2021, a non-surgical treatment called selumetinib was approved in the USA and Europe, respectively. Despite this new treatment, the paper suggests that surgery may still be a better option for some patients. This is because selumetinib can take several months to shrink the tumor, and it might not prevent the tumor from becoming cancerous, which happens in 10-15% of cases.

FAQs

  1. What is plexiform neurofibromas and what disorder is it associated with?
  2. What are the available treatments for plexiform neurofibromas?
  3. Why might surgery still be a better option for some patients despite the approval of selumetinib?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about tumor resection is to follow post-operative care instructions closely to ensure proper healing and recovery. This may include taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and engaging in physical therapy or rehabilitation as recommended. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, to support the body’s healing process and overall well-being. Lastly, it is crucial to communicate any concerning symptoms or changes in health to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended tumor resection include:

  1. Patients with large, symptomatic tumors that are causing pain, discomfort, or functional impairment.
  2. Patients with tumors located in critical areas of the body that could lead to complications if left untreated.
  3. Patients with tumors that are rapidly growing or showing signs of malignancy.
  4. Patients who have not responded well to other treatment options, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
  5. Patients with tumors that are causing compression of nearby structures, such as nerves or blood vessels.
  6. Patients with tumors that are accessible and can be safely removed without causing significant damage to surrounding tissues.
  7. Patients who are in overall good health and able to tolerate surgery and the associated risks.

Timeline

Before tumor resection:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness related to the tumor
  • Patient undergoes various imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans to diagnose and locate the tumor
  • Patient may undergo a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis
  • Patient may meet with a team of healthcare providers including surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists to discuss treatment options
  • Patient may undergo pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery

After tumor resection:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to remove the tumor
  • Patient may stay in the hospital for a few days to recover from surgery
  • Patient may experience pain, swelling, and other side effects from the surgery
  • Patient may need to follow up with their healthcare team for monitoring and further treatment, such as physical therapy or additional treatments to prevent the tumor from returning
  • Patient may experience improved symptoms and quality of life after the tumor is removed

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after tumor resection can vary depending on the type of tumor, the patient’s overall health, and the specific treatment plan. It is important for patients to work closely with their healthcare team to understand their options and make informed decisions about their care.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about tumor resection include:

  1. What are the risks and benefits of surgical tumor resection compared to non-surgical treatments like selumetinib?
  2. How long is the recovery period after tumor resection surgery?
  3. What are the potential complications or side effects of tumor resection surgery?
  4. Will I need additional treatments or follow-up care after tumor resection surgery?
  5. How likely is it that the tumor will return after surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options for tumor removal besides surgery?
  7. How experienced is the surgical team in performing tumor resection procedures?
  8. What is the success rate of tumor resection surgery for my specific type of tumor?
  9. How will tumor resection surgery impact my quality of life and daily activities?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take before or after tumor resection surgery?

Reference

Authors: Vaassen P, Feldkamp A, Scholz M, Blau T, Dürr NR, Rosenbaum T. Journal: Childs Nerv Syst. 2023 Nov;39(11):3301-3304. doi: 10.1007/s00381-023-06029-5. Epub 2023 Jun 21. PMID: 37344677