There are several types of childhood cancers with FDA-approved precision therapy treatments. They include certain types of certain cancers that have the gene changes these treatments target.

These include some:

• Lymphomas
• Solid tumors, including ewing sarcoma, osteosarcoma, infantile fibrosarcoma, langerhans cell histiocytosis, Wilms tumor and neuroblastoma
• Neuroblastomas
• Thyroid cancers
• Brain tumors including gliomas
• Other pre-cancerous disorders, including neurofibromatosis type 1

Researchers are still testing many targeted therapies in kids through clinical trials. Sometimes, we use them off-label with expert guidance. The COMPASS Clinic at Children's Wisconsin helps families explore these options.

Precision therapy may be an option for kids with:

• Relapsed cancer: Cancer that came back after standard treatments. It may return to the same place or spread to a new location.
• Refractory cancer: Cancer that did not get better with standard treatments.
• Rare cancers: Cancers that are unusual in children and may not have well-established treatment plans.
• Cancers with unclear next steps: Cancers that have unique features or genetic changes. These make it harder to decide on what treatments to try next.

The COMPASS team meets regularly to review test results and scans, looking for new treatment options.

Your child's care team will talk with you if they think precision therapy can help.

Nationally recognized: U.S. News & World Report regularly names us as one of the nation's best pediatric centers for cancer and blood disorders. We have the resources and expertise to provide the best possible care for tricky cancers.

COMPASS Clinic: Advanced molecular testing can tell us more about your child's tumor. This clinic offers a specific diagnosis and tailors a care plan based on your child's specific cancer.

Advanced care close to home: We offer next-generation tumor testing and gene sequencing. We're Wisconsin's only pediatric precision oncology program, and one of the few programs in the country offering full pediatric precision medicine.

Dedicated to children: We make treatment less scary. Our staff uses kid-friendly language and tools to help your child feel calm and strong. Our cancer teams care for children every day. They have special training and extensive experience and are uniquely qualified to treat kids of all ages.

Focused on the family: We provide family-centered care. We know that a child's health affects the whole family. We partner with your family, talking openly and often about your child's care and your personal beliefs. Our goal is to support you by building on your strengths.

Clinical trials: We are a member of the Children's Oncology Group, the world's largest pediatric cancer research organization. Through this group, we take part in clinical trials and study new treatments, including targeted treatments.

Survivorship support: Young adults who are currently receiving or have received cancer treatment can get exceptional support through our young adult oncology group. The group meets monthly to help young adults (18-39) with cancer or recovering from it to share experiences and plan activities.

Next Steps Aftercare Programs: After treatment, you'll enter the Bridge to Next Steps program. At least two years after your child completes treatment, they can enter the Next Steps Clinic. This long-term follow-up program cares for cancer survivors. Our care team monitors for recurrence, manages late effects and promotes overall well-being.