MiBG for Neuroblastoma

MIBG given with higher-dose radioactive iodine can treat neuroblastoma. It is absorbed by neuroblastoma cells and is radioactive enough to kill them. Kids usually do well with this treatment because it doesn’t cause as many side effects as other cancer treatments and specifically attacks neuroblastoma cells.
The treatment’s timing needs careful planning. After MIBG treatment, radiation can spread from the child to other people for several days. Radiation also can come out in pee, poop, sweat, and spit during this time. The radiation decreases each day after the MIBG is given. A child getting MIBG treatment usually spends about 4 to 5 days in the hospital. This gives the radiation time to reach a safe level before the child goes home.
MIBG goes into a child’s vein through an IV or central line. The MIBG runs into the body in under 2 hours and does not hurt. Then the child will then stay in the hospital for a few days and be watched closely.
Because MIBG is radioactive, safety guidelines will keep your child and others safe. These include:
A special room. Kids get MIBG treatment in a special room made with lead and concrete walls. No one outside the room is exposed to radiation.
A urine catheter. Your child will have a catheter placed into their bladder before treatment. This lets the care team safely collect and get rid of radioactive urine (pee).
Iodine medicine. Your child will get medicine to help protect the thyroid gland during and after treatment. The thyroid is very sensitive to radiation.
The room where a child gets MIBG has a parent room attached to it to let parents be nearby but stay safe.
Parents can see and talk with their child using video and audio connections between the two rooms. They can wear protective gear for quick visits to the child’s room. A pregnant parent can’t be with their child until the radioactivity clears. #childhoodcancer #neuroblastoma #neuroblastomawarrior #claustrophobic