DIPG Brain Tumour Treatment: Exploring Options for a Rare and Aggressive Cancer

Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) is a rare and aggressive brain tumour that primarily affects children. Located in the brainstem, DIPG is difficult to treat due to its inoperable position and fast progression. While a cure is still out of reach, researchers and doctors are working tirelessly to develop better, more effective treatment strategies.

1. Understanding DIPG and Its Challenges
DIPG grows in a sensitive area of the brain that controls vital functions like breathing and heart rate, making surgery impossible. Symptoms usually appear suddenly and worsen quickly, including facial weakness, difficulty walking, and coordination loss. Early diagnosis is key to managing symptoms and planning care.

2. Radiation Therapy as the Main Approach
Currently, radiation therapy is the standard treatment for DIPG. Although radiation might cause a high level of inflammation risk, It is still the only option to help shrink the tumour temporarily and improve neurological symptoms. While it doesn’t cure the disease, radiation may provide relief and extend survival by a few months.

3. Experimental Treatments and Clinical Trials
Many families turn to clinical trials for access to new drug combinations, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. These trials explore ways to cross the blood-brain barrier and reach the tumour more effectively although success rate remains very low. Participation offers hope and contributes to future breakthroughs.

4. Supportive and Non-Invasive Therapies
Complementary therapies and non-invasive options such as electric field therapy, including ECCT, are also being considered as gentle ways to support traditional treatments in shrinking the tumour without added side effects like inflammation or edema, to safely help control tumour growth. ECCT can also be used in combination with chemical drugs to help drugs penetrate the blood-brain barrier in order for the drug to reach the tumour more effectively to greatly enhance the success rate.

5. The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach
Treating DIPG remains a highly challenging disease that requires a team of specialists including neurologists, oncologists, integrative methods and in some cases palliative care providers. Personalized plans that combine medical, emotional, and supportive care can make a significant difference in a child’s comfort and stability to win the disease.

Conclusion
DIPG remains one of the most difficult cancers to treat, but ongoing research and new therapies are bringing hope. By combining radiation, experimental treatments, and supportive care like ECCT, families can take a proactive, compassionate approach to managing this disease.