Cabozantinib for relapsed neuroblastoma: Single institution case series

Relapsed high‐risk neuroblastoma has few effective therapies currently available or in development. Cabozantinib is an Food and Drug Administration approved multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor for select adult malignancies with preclinical data suggesting efficacy against neuroblastoma. A safe and tolerable dose has been identified for children, but its efficacy remains unknown. We describe four children with relapsed metastatic neuroblastoma treated with cabozantinib. All four patients had extended disease control (two complete responsesfor >12 months, 2 stable disease >6 months) with manageable predictable toxicities requiring dose reduction in two patients. We discuss the potential for the use of cabozantinib in neuroblastoma.     

Aneurysmal bone cyst inadvertently treated with chemotherapy—A series of three cases

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a benign locally aggressive tumor that occurs in childhood and early adulthood. Most relevant differential diagnoses are the telangiectatic osteosarcoma and the giant cell tumor. In the present case series chemotherapy following the EURAMOS or the Euro‐Ewing 99 protocol was externally applied in three patients with the misdiagnosis of ABC as malignant bone tumor. In all three cases, a significant reduction of the volume of the ABC was achieved. This is the first report about the use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in ABC. Chemotherapy reduces the size of an ABC and leads to progressive sclerosis.     

Cancer in pregnancy

Cancer is rarely diagnosed during pregnancy, but the incidence of cases is increasing. Diagnosis may be delayed due to an assumption that symptoms are pregnancy-related, or a reluctance to perform investigations. Multidisciplinary discussion is vital, with decision-making involving the obstetrician, patient and family. Many cancers can be treated during pregnancy. Surgery is considered safe and chemotherapy after the first trimester does not increase fetal risks. Timing and mode of delivery will depend on the treatment plans as well as obstetric considerations. The rate of preterm birth is increased, but overall neonatal and paediatric outcomes do not seem to be affected.     

Principles of chemotherapy and radiotherapy

The current management of all gynaecological malignancy requires complex multidisciplinary investigation and discussion, leading to multi-modality treatment. The delivery of systemic therapy or radiotherapy can have different aims depending on the type of cancer, clinical context and patient wishes. This review explores the systemic treatment options and radiotherapy that form part of the standard management of this group of tumours and looks at current research that may help shape the treatment of the future.