What to ask after a neuroblastoma Relapse

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Apr 21
2 min read

Insights from Dr. Brian H. Kushner | April, 2025 Neuroblastoma Series Webinar

When a child’s neuroblastoma relapses, it can feel like the ground disappears beneath you. But it’s not the end of the road.

Dr. Brian H. Kushner, a leading pediatric oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) specializing in high-risk and relapsed neuroblastoma, shared key insights during our April, 2025 Neuroblastoma Series webinar. He reminded families that there are options — and that children can return to remission, sometimes for many years.

Here are some of the most important questions to ask after a relapse, based on Dr. Kushner’s expert advice.

1. What are our options now — and which ones offer the best chance of remission?

There is no one-size-fits-all approach after a relapse. Dr. Kushner emphasized that different hospitals and oncologists may approach treatment differently:

“There’s no standard of care. There are many ways to do this. Each center might have their own approach — and families deserve to know what those options are.”

Ask your care team to walk you through the treatment options they’re considering and how they compare to approaches at other centers. You deserve to understand the “why” behind every decision.

2. Is my child eligible for a clinical trial — and what should we consider?

Some of the most innovative treatments are being studied through clinical trials. These may involve immunotherapies, antibody-drug conjugates, or other promising therapies not yet widely available.

Dr. Kushner encourages families to ask early on whether clinical trials are an option:

What phase is the trial in?
What are the potential risks and benefits?
Is it the best fit for your child’s current situation?

3. Should we consider aggressive treatment again?

Understandably, families may hesitate to pursue more high-dose chemotherapy or radiation after a relapse. But in many cases, these treatments — sometimes called “salvage” therapies — can offer real results.

Ask your care team:

How aggressive is the proposed treatment?
What are the short- and long-term side effects?
What’s the goal: remission, disease control, or symptom relief?

4. Should we get a second opinion?

Dr. Kushner is clear: yes.

“No parent should feel bad about asking for another opinion. It's smart. It can save your child's life.”

A second opinion, especially from a major center with expertise in relapsed neuroblastoma, can open new doors or confirm that you're on the right path. Either way, it’s a powerful move.

If you’re unsure where to turn, we can help connect you. Reach out to us - admin@shirforlife.com

5. What’s the goal of treatment at this stage?

Is the goal to cure? Control the disease? Extend time while prioritizing quality of life? It’s crucial to ask this question and receive an honest, compassionate answer.

Clear communication helps you weigh risks, make informed choices, and advocate for your child at every step.

Final Thought

A relapse is scary — but there is reason to hope. Dr. Kushner wants families to know that relapse doesn’t mean giving up. With the right information and support, you can move forward with strength.