The use of 5-aminolevulinic acid in resection of pediatric brain tumors: a critical review

AbstractThe compound, 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) is approved for fluorescence-guided resections of malignant gliomas in Europe and other countries for use in adults, but not for children. The application of 5-ALA in children remains an off-label use. Several case reports on fluorescence-guided surgery use in children have been published, yet no prospective study has been conducted. Here we systematically review the reported studies and discuss the usefulness, application, and safety of 5-ALA use in resection of pediatric brain tumors.
Source: Journal of Neuro-Oncology - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research