Ed’s stories explore prescription drug pricing, affordability and access, as well issues surrounding patents, litigation, and legislation. He is also the author of the morning Pharmalittle newsletter and the afternoon Pharmalot newsletter .

Novartis has acknowledged seven previously unknown instances in which tumors were found in children who were treated with its spinal muscular atrophy therapy, a surprising development that has raised concerns among families, physicians, and patient advocacy groups.

The cases, which for the moment are being seen as only a potential safety signal, were publicized on Thursday by an advocacy group and on a Facebook page after Novartis earlier this week disclosed the information to neurologists.…