Neuroblastoma

Acute

What is Neuroblastoma?

Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that starts in early nerve cells called neuroblasts. Normally, these immature cells grow into working nerve cells. But in neuroblastoma (nur-oh-bla-STOW-muh), they grow uncontrollably and become cancer cells that form a solid tumor.

There are a number of symptoms of Neuroblastoma, which may include
  • An abdominal mass, either felt during an examination or seen as a swollen abdomen.
  • Uncontrolled eye movement caused by the tumor.
  • Swelling and bruising of the area around the eyes, caused by metastases (tumor spread)
  • Compression of kidney or bladder by the tumor may cause changes in urination.
Complications
  • Diarrhea
  • Easy bruising or bleeding
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Bone pain
  • Fertility problems
  • Flushing or redness of skin
  • Bulging eyes
  • Chest pain
Causes

Most neuroblastomas are the result of gene changes in neuroblasts that happen during the child's development, sometimes even before birth. What causes these acquired gene changes is not known. They might be just be random events that sometimes happen inside cells, without having an outside cause.

Prevention

The only known risk factors for neuroblastoma cannot be changed. There are no known lifestyle-related or environmental causes of neuroblastoma at this time.

Risk Factors

The two biggest risk factors for neuroblastoma are age and heredity. Age: Most cases of neuroblastoma are diagnosed in children between the ages of one and two, and 90% are diagnosed before the age of 5. Heredity: 1% to 2% of neuroblastoma cases seem to be the result of a gene inherited from a parent

How is it diagnosed?

How is it diagnosed?

Surgery is used to treat neuroblastoma that has not spread to other parts of the body. As much of the tumor as is safely possible is removed. Lymph nodes are also removed and checked for signs of cancer. If the tumor cannot be removed, a biopsy may be done instead

How is it treated?

Treatment for acute myeloid leukemia is vital. It varies with the patient and stage of the disease. Treatment options include

As much of the tumor as is safely possible is removed. Lymph nodes are also removed and checked for signs of cancer. If the tumor cannot be removed, a biopsy may be done instea.

 

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