Response assessment in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma: recommendations from the Response Assessment in Pediatric Neuro-Oncology (RAPNO) working group

Abstract

Optimising the conduct of clinical trials for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma involves use of consistent, objective disease assessments and standardised response criteria. The Response Assessment in Pediatric Neuro-Oncology working group, consisting of an international panel of paediatric and adult neuro-oncologists, clinicians, radiologists, radiation oncologists, and neurosurgeons, was established to address issues and unique challenges in assessing response in children with CNS tumours. A working group was formed specifically to address response assessment in children and young adults with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma and to develop a consensus on recommendations for response assessment. Response should be assessed using MRI of brain and spine, neurological examination, and anti-inflammatory or antiangiogenic drugs. Clinical imaging standards are defined. As with previous consensus recommendations, these recommendations will need to be validated in prospective clinical trials.