Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that develops from immature nerve cells, called neuroblasts, which are found in various parts of the body. It most commonly arises in and around the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys. However, it can also develop in nerve tissue along the spine, chest, abdomen, or pelvis.
Neuroblastoma primarily affects infants and young children, usually under the age of 5. It is the most common cancer in infants. The cause of neuroblastoma is not well understood, but it is believed to involve genetic mutations that occur during fetal development.
Symptoms of neuroblastoma can vary depending on the location of the tumor but may include:
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- A lump or mass under the skin that is not tender to the touch
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Pain in the bones
- Weakness or paralysis if the tumor presses on the spinal cord
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fever
Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like CT or MRI scans, blood tests, and a biopsy of the tumor. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and in some cases, stem cell transplants or immunotherapy. The prognosis for neuroblastoma varies widely depending on factors such as the age of the child, the stage of the disease, and the tumor's genetic characteristics.