Children with advanced-stage neuroblastoma usually have a poor prognosis. While conventional treatment with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation may provide some palliation, long-term survival is rare. A number of investigational therapies are being performed nationwide in an attempt to improve the progno sis for children with neuroblastoma. One such treatment is the use of 131I- metaiodobenzylguanidine. This article will review the pathophysiology of neuro blastoma, give an overview of this investigational treatment, and discuss the nursing care associated with radioactive treatment.
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