The analysis of the overall genomic pattern, which probably unravels particular genomic instability mechanisms rather than the analysis of individual markers, is essential to predict relapse in NB patients. It adds critical prognostic information to conventional markers and should be included in future treatment stratification.

No abstract

These data provide further evidence of the role of segmental alterations, suggesting that tumor progression is linked to the accumulation of segmental alterations in neuroblastoma. This possibility of genomic evolution should be taken into account in treatment strategies of low- and intermediate-risk neuroblastoma and should warrant biologic reinvestigation at the time of relapse.

A significant proportion of children with OPT can avoid radiotherapy after prolonged chemotherapy. Deferring irradiation with chemotherapy protocols did not compromise overall survival of the entire population or visual function.

Transplantation of PBSCs is associated with more rapid hematologic recovery than is bone marrow transplantation after high-dose chemotherapy for solid tumors or lymphomas. Furthermore, global costs are lower and cost-effectiveness ratios are better with PBSC transplantation.