131I-Labeled MIBG for Refractory Neuroblastoma: A Compassionate Use Protocol

Neuroblastoma remains a fatal disease for a large percentage of patients, especially those with high-risk disease features who become resistant to conventional therapy. 131I-metaiodobenzylguanidine (131I-MIBG) is a norepinephrine analog that concentrates in adrenergic tissue and therefore holds promise for cell-specific treatment of neuroblastoma. 131I-MIBG is active against relapsed or refractory neuroblastoma and associated hematopoietic toxicity can be abrogated with autologous stem cell rescue. 131I-MIBG given in doses of 10-18 millicurie (mCi)/kg with stem cell rescue, if necessary, is safe and effective palliative therapy for refractory or relapsed neuroblastoma patients.