The Power of Pixels: Imaging Modalities for Children with Brain Tumors

Description

Title: The Power of Pixels: Imaging Modalities for Children with Brain Tumors 

Presented By:  Breanne Roche, DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC, CPHON 

Overview of the Course: Presented at the 2025 Spring Education Exchange (SEE) this course presents that In the United States, CNS and brain tumors are the most common type of cancer in children who are between the ages of 0-19, and they are the largest cause of cancer-related death in children ages 0-14. Classification of brain tumors is not straightforward, it is based on tumor location, extent of disease, and histological findings supported by other tests including immunohistochemical stains and molecular biomarkers. Imaging for brain tumors is essential. Unlike other common solid tumors, there are brain tumors which can be diagnosed without definitive tissue for pathological diagnosis, and diagnosis is based on neuroimaging. Imaging plays a vital role in the management of patients with brain tumors throughout the treatment trajectory. There are some patients who may not require standard treatment for a brain tumor, therefore routine tumor surveillance imaging with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is imperative. Advanced imaging may help clinicians differentiate between treatment related effects versus tumor progression or relapse, which facilitates treatment decision making. Pediatric oncology nurses are essential to the multidisciplinary team caring for children with brain tumors. They provide education, anticipatory guidance and support to patients and families prior to disease surveillance imaging; therefore it is important for these nurses to have a strong foundation and understanding of the various imaging modalities. This session will review the common imaging modalities for children with brain tumors, help nurses gain a better understanding of the different MRI techniques, and discuss the benefits of advanced imaging including MRI with perfusion and spectroscopy. 

This Course will Explore:

• The classification and unique diagnostic challenges of pediatric CNS and brain tumors
• The essential role of neuroimaging in diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing surveillance 

• Key imaging modalities used in pediatric brain tumor care, including standard and advanced MRI techniques 

• How advanced imaging (such as MRI with perfusion and spectroscopy) helps distinguish treatment effects from tumor progression or relapse 

• The critical role of pediatric oncology nurses in preparing families for imaging and supporting multidisciplinary care
• Upon successful completion of this course, nurses will earn .50 NCPD hours associated with this activity

Association for Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurses is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. Provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider Number 14513.

Individual Learning Needs Assessment (ILNA) Coding
The program content has been reviewed by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) and is acceptable for recertification points. You may claim .50 NCPD in one of the following ILNA categories: Pediatric Hem/Onc Nursing Practice, Disease Related Biogy, Professional Performance

Please reach out to the Education Team at education@aphon.org with your name, the email associated with your APHON account, and the above ILNA category you would like to have reflected on your certificate, and APHON can update your completion certificate to reflect your choice.

Any questions? Contact education@aphon.org