The Use of 5-aminolevulinic Acid (ALA) as an Intraoperative Tumor Marker for Resection of Pediatric Central Nervous System (CNS) Tumors

Overview

Surgery is the cornerstone treatment of most pediatric CNS tumors, including astrocytomas, ependymomas, medulloblastomas, and many other pathologies. In most pediatric CNS tumors, the aim of surgery is maximal tumor resection, while preserving neurological function. Extent of tumor residual has been shown to be a major prognostic factor for progression free survival (PFS), and survival in several malignant and low-grade tumors such as medulloblastomas, ependymomas, and astrocytic tumors. 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) has been shown to be valuable in intraoperative marking of various cancers. Following oral admission, during surgery, the tumor tissue is illuminated by blue light. Tumor cells tend to metabolize 5-ALA to a porphyrin named protoporhyrin IX (PpIX). PpIX reacts with the blue light and emits a pinky color (- fluorescence). This enables the surgeon to better identify tumor cells and perform a more extensive resection. Over recent years, many studies have proven the efficacy using 5-ALA for resecting various intracranial and spinal tumors, thus achieving a better tumor control. In the suggested study, we propose using the same technique for various pediatric central nervous system tumors. We will focus on the correlation between various pathologies and the fluorescence, trying to deduce the role of 5-ALA in resection of specific pathologies. Also, we will study the safety of 5-ALA use in the pediatric population.

Following the above general description, eligible children will receive 5-aminolevulinic acid (5ALA) prior to surgery. During surgery, careful attention will be payed to the fluorescence from the tumor, as well as the ability to differentiate between tumor and non tumorous tissue. Comparisons between fluorescence and pathologies will be performed. Additionally, careful documentation of side effects will be done, to increase the safety of 5ALA use.