What is neuroblastoma?
Neuroblastoma is a rare type of cancerous tumor. The tumor is composed of abnormal nerve tissue (neural crest) cells. These cells are found in the adrenal glands and in nerve tissue located in front of the spine.
Neuroblastoma usually occurs in children and infants.
Prognosis of the disease
Expectations can vary widely. In some cases, in young children, the tumor may disappear on its own without treatment. It may also happen that the tumor tissues mature and transform into a benign, i.e. non-cancerous, tumor. This tumor can be removed and spreads rapidly.
In other cases, when treatment is needed, the response may be varied. It is important that a diagnosis is made as early as possible, because if the cancer has not spread, treatment is usually much more effective.
On the other hand, if the cancer has spread, neuroblastoma is much more difficult to cure. Generally speaking, it is easier to treat in younger children than in older children. Finally, it should be noted that when a child has been treated for neuroblastoma, he or she is more likely to have a second, different cancer in the future.
Neuroblastoma occurs especially in children and infants.
Symptoms of neuroblastoma
Depending on the area of the body affected, the symptoms of neuroblastoma will vary. In the case of the abdomen, the following symptoms appear:
- Abdominal pain
- A mass under the skin, painless on palpation.
- Diarrhea or constipation
When found in the chest:
- Chest pain
- A wheezing sound when breathing
- Eye changes, such as drooping eyelids
Neuroblastoma may also present with other signs or symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Back pain
- Bone pain
- Thinning
- Lumps in the tissue under the skin
- Dark circles around the eyes or eyeballs that seem to stick out
Medical tests for neuroblastoma
The specialist will need to do a general examination of the child. Depending on where the tumor is located, he or she may detect:
- A lump or mass in the abdomen
- Enlarged liver
- High blood pressure and rapid heart rate
- Swollen lymph nodes
X-rays and other imaging tests will also be done to find the primary tumor and how far it has spread. In addition, other procedures such as a biopsy, coagulation studies, hormone tests, or urine tests, among others, may be performed.
What are the causes of neuroblastoma?
The causes of the tumor are unknown, although several experts believe that it may be due to a defect in the genes. Half of the tumors are present from birth and are most commonly diagnosed in children under five years of age.
Can it be prevented?
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent neuroblastoma. For this reason, it is recommended to have regular check-ups and to see a specialist in case of any abnormality that the child or baby may present.
Treatments for neuroblastoma
Treatment will vary depending on the location of the tumor, its spread and the age of the patient.
In some cases surgery to remove the cancerous cells is sufficient, but usually other therapies are also necessary. If the tumor has spread, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be required.
Children at high risk for neuroblastoma can receive a transplant using their own stem cells to form new, healthy blood cells.
What specialist treats it?
Neuroblastoma should be treated by a specialist in pediatrics or pediatric surgery. In Top Doctors’ medical directory you will find the specialist that best suits your needs.