Boy, 7, with Rare Brain Tumor Becomes First Patient to Receive Groundbreaking Proton Therapy Treatment

In a groundbreaking development for cancer treatment, seven-year-old Stephen De La Torre has become the inaugural patient to receive proton therapy at Stanford Medicine’s newly established compact proton therapy suite. This innovative approach aims to effectively target and shrink Stephen’s brain tumour while minimising radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissues, a critical consideration for young patients undergoing treatment.

Stephen was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour known as a papillary tumour of the pineal region after experiencing debilitating symptoms, including severe headaches, vision impairment, nausea, and lethargy. The tumour, approximately the size of an AA battery, was obstructing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, resulting in swelling and a host of serious complications. His mother, Tricia De La Torre, reported that during initial consultations, surgeons communicated the tumour’s precarious location near the brainstem. “They removed what they could safely,” she noted, emphasising the necessity for further treatment to eradicate the remaining cancer cells.

Following surgery on 9 March at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford, Stephen commenced a rigorous schedule of radiation therapy five days a week. Medical professionals quickly identified that he was an ideal candidate for proton therapy, a targeted form of radiation that limits the impact on healthy tissues, particularly around sensitive areas like the brainstem. Dr. Bill Loo, a professor of radiation oncology at Stanford, commented on the significance of this treatment method. “The key is being able to eliminate cancer without causing unacceptable collateral damage,” he stated, highlighting the precision offered by proton therapy.

Historically, the size of proton therapy machines posed a challenge, with traditional facilities requiring vast spaces, often the size of a football field. Patients like Stephen previously had to travel considerable distances for treatment, with the nearest facility being over 500 miles away. However, Stanford has recently completed its compact proton therapy suite, celebrated as both the world’s smallest and the first of its kind. On 4 June, Stephen was the first patient to receive treatment in this facility, heralding a new era in targeted cancer care.

Specialists involved in Stephen’s care are optimistic about the benefits of this advanced form of therapy. Dr. Susan Hiniker, Stephen’s paediatric radiation oncologist, pointed out the advantages of being able to direct radiation precisely to the tumour while sparing adjacent healthy structures. “For children, it lowers their risk of long-term treatment side effects,” she explained. The proximity of Stephen’s tumour to the brainstem further underscored the importance of minimising radiation exposure to this vulnerable area.

During his treatment sessions, Stephen is required to wear a specially designed mask that helps him remain still, ensuring optimal targeting of the radiation. His enthusiastic outlook throughout this challenging journey has been a source of inspiration for those around him. “He’s really excited about it. He’s been telling everybody, ‘I’m the first patient!'” stated his mother, showcasing his youthful spirit amid adversity.

As he progresses through a series of upcoming treatments, both doctors and his family hold a positive view of his recovery. Following the completion of his therapy regimen, Stephen is expected to return home, eager to engage in cherished activities such as dirt biking, playing sports, and supporting his favourite football team, the San Francisco 49ers — all with the aim of being cancer-free.

Tricia De La Torre expressed her admiration for Stephen’s resilience, remarking on his remarkable strength and optimism. “He’s just told us he’s going to be OK,” she shared, reflecting on the unwavering courage her son displays in the face of hardship. His journey serves as a testament not only to medical innovation but also to the indomitable spirit of children battling cancer.