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This information represents
the views of the doctors and nurses serving on the American Cancer
Society's Cancer Information Database Editorial Board. These views are
based on their interpretation of studies published in medical journals,
as well as their own professional experience.
The treatment information
in this document is not official policy of the Society and is not
intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of
your cancer care team. It is intended to help you and your family make
informed decisions, together with your doctor.
Your doctor may
have reasons for suggesting a treatment plan different from these
general treatment options. Don't hesitate to ask him or her questions
about your treatment options.
Treatment overview
The goals of treatment of the Ewing family of tumors are:
- to cure the patient
- to keep as much function of affected body parts as possible
- to keep the long-term complications of treatment to a
minimum
To achieve these goals, a team approach involving many
specialists is needed. Surgeons, pediatric oncologists, radiation
oncologists, pathologists, psychosocial specialists, and rehabilitation
specialists work together to give children and adolescents the best
treatment and quality of life possible. This can be best done at a
children's cancer center that is a member of the Children's Oncology
Group.
Most patients with the Ewing family of tumors are treated in
clinical trials according to national treatment guidelines called
protocols. In the United States, some of the most successful protocols
have been those of the Children's Oncology Group and its forerunners.
Studies from similar groups in Europe have also produced very important
information. Most advances in the treatment of the Ewing family of
tumors have come from the results of these clinical trials.
The types of treatment used in Ewing tumors include surgery,
chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. In almost all cases, both
chemotherapy and localized therapy (surgery and/or radiation therapy)
is needed.
The rest of this section describes the types of treatment used
for Ewing tumors and when these treatments are used in different
situations.
Last Medical Review: 08/20/2009
Last Revised: 08/20/2009
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