What is Neuroblastoma?
Neuroblastoma is a solid malignant tumour that most commonly originates in the nerve cells outside the brain, particularly in infants and children under five. It can develop in a fetus before birth and is sometimes detected during a prenatal (before birth) ultrasound. Less commonly, neuroblastoma can also occur in older children, adolescents, and young adults.
The most frequent site for neuroblastoma is the adrenal glands above the kidneys. It can also begin in nerve tissue near the spine in the neck, chest, abdomen, or pelvis.
What is the Incidence of Neuroblastoma?
It is most commonly seen in infants and young children and is rare in those over 10. The incidence rate is 10.54 cases per million children under the age of 15 each year.
What are the Symptoms of Neuroblastoma?
Symptoms vary depending on the location of the tumour.
Specific symptoms:
- Swollen abdomen
- Shortness of breath and difficulty swallowing
- Lump in the neck
- Bruising on the skin (especially around the eyes)
- High blood pressure
- Diarrhea
Non-specific symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Bone pain
How is Neuroblastoma Diagnosed?
- Blood and urine tests
- Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy
- Tumor/genetic testing
- Imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), PET-CT scan, and MIBG scan
How is Neuroblastoma Treated?
In the treatment of children with neuroblastoma, the approach typically starts with induction chemotherapy, followed by surgical intervention. This is followed by high-dose consolidation chemotherapy to achieve remission and stem cell transplantation. Treatment continues with radiotherapy, and then further medication is administered with immunotherapy and retinoic acid.
Sources:
https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/neuroblastoma-childhood/view-all
