Children's Memorial Hospital - Chicago, IL, USA.
Medical Director, Neuro-oncology; Associate Professor, Developmental
Therapeutics Program, Northwestern University Medical School
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Stewart Goldman, MD
Children's Memorial Hospital - Chicago, IL, USA. |
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Q Question
My son had A.L.L. he has been in remission since 1995. Thank the good lord. Now he is having seizures. The neurologist says the chemo caused micro stokes and that is what is causing the seizures. I would like to hear of some of the "long term side affects of chemotherapy"Cindy
A Answer
Dear Cindy,
First, I apologize that this response to your e-mail has taken so long. I
am also thankful to hear that your son is now a long term survivor. As per
your question about long term effects of chemotherapy, I would need more
specific information to comment if these seizures are really from
"micro-strokes from chemotherapy". In general intrathecal and IV
methotrexate used for some kids with ALL has a risk for late neurologic
sequelae. I would also suggest you pick up the book ( sorry not the exact
title) late effects of childhood cancer, the survivors guide, Dr. Kent, I am
sure has the exact reference and this book written for survivors and their
families by medical experts can give you very good information.
sincerely
Stewart Goldman MD
Q Question
My 10 year old son has NF1 and was
diagnosed with a Brain Stem glioma when he was about 6 years old. It grew large
enough to cause hydrocephalus and he has had to have a VP shunt to relieve the
pressure. My question is....Since this is caused by NF1 ...is his prognosis the
same as a brain stem glioma unrelated to NF1? I have been told that the most the
tumor will do is cause hydrocephalus because of NF. What is your opinion? I
would greatly appreciate any info you could give me regarding this matter.
Sincerely,
L. Hendricks.
A Answer
Dear Ms. Hendricks;
Nf-1 associated gliomas are normally low grade in nature, including the
brain stem lesions. I understand your child had optic glioma treated with
chemotherapy. Both the optic and brain stem lesion would be treated by that
therapy. To answer your question specifically, the lesion is usually less
aggressive and with close follow-up any changes could be noted before severe
changes may occur. Don't forget there is a excellent chance this lesion in
the brain stem may never grow, just keep a close up with close monitoring.
Good Luck