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Retinoid Therapy for Neuroblastoma

Retinoids are chemicals that are related to vitamin A. They are known as differentiating agents because they are thought to help some cancer cells mature (differentiate) into normal cells.

When might retinoid therapy be used?

In children with high-risk neuroblastoma, treatment with a retinoid called 13-cis-retinoic acid (isotretinoin) reduces the risk of the cancer coming back after high-dose chemotherapy and stem cell transplant. Most doctors now recommend 6 months of 13-cis-retinoic acid after the transplant. This drug is taken as a capsule, twice a day for 2 weeks, followed by 2 weeks off.

Researchers are now trying to develop more effective retinoids and to define the exact role of this approach in treating neuroblastoma.

Possible side effects

The most common side effect of 13-cis-retinoic acid is dry and cracked lips. Dry skin or eyes, nosebleeds, muscle and joint pains, and changes in the nails are also possible.

Bloodwork may be done before and while taking the drug to watch for possible effects of the drug on the liver or cholesterol levels.

Retinoids can also make the skin more sensitive to the sun, so doctors typically advise that prolonged sun exposure be limited.

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Developed by the American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team with medical review and contribution by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

 

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Last Revised: June 26, 2025

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