Initial Diagnosis

Yesterday (10/19/11), Case underwent a biopsy to determine the type of the tumor that was discovered in his abdomen near his pancreas, liver, and stomach. The team is 99% sure, based on what they've seen before, that it is a neuroblastoma, a type of cancerous tumor, and that it is at least a "stage III," presenting intermediate risk. Results from the biopsy should be received within a week, which will provide additional details about the tumor, and dictate the type of treatment that will be customized for Case.

The next step is to determine metastasis, or the movement of the cancer to other parts of Case's body. There do not appear to be any cancerous cells in Case's liver or pancreas, and the results of the bone marrow tests will reveal if any cancerous cells have spread to his marrow. A bone scan is also scheduled for tomorrow (Friday, 10/21). A MIBG test will determine if there are any cancerous cells in Case's lymph nodes and is expected to take place next Tuesday and Wednesday (10/25-26).

It is anticipated that chemotherapy will begin in about a week or so, and if he remains "intermediate risk," he will likely receive 6-8 chemo treatments in an attempt to shrink the tumor. Once the chemotherapy is completed and the tumor has been significantly reduced in size, it will most likely be removed surgically.

Currently, Case is recovering from the biopsy, and has an incision (approximately 3") on his lower abdomen and two smaller incisions on his lower back. They are watching his red blood cell count, and will give him a blood transfusion if necessary (to replenish blood platelets). We all felt pretty good about the doctors and the plan they presented today and we are very hopeful.