Neuroblastoma

Pancreatic Cancer Slideshow

• What is neuroblastoma?
• What are symptoms and signs of neuroblastoma?
• What tests are used in the detection and diagnosis of neuroblastoma?
• What is the prognosis for neuroblastoma?
• What are the stages of neuroblastoma?
• What is the treatment for neuroblastoma?
• What are treatment options for neuroblastoma?

What is neuroblastoma?

Neuroblastoma is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in nerve tissue of the adrenal gland, neck, chest, or spinal cord.

Neuroblastoma often begins in the nerve tissue of the adrenal glands. There are two adrenal glands, one on top of each kidney in the back of the upper abdomen. The adrenal glands produce important hormones that help control heart rate, blood pressure, blood sugar, and the way the body reacts to stress. Neuroblastoma may also begin in the chest, in nerve tissue near the spine in the neck, or in the spinal cord.

Neuroblastoma most often begins during early childhood, usually in children younger than 5 years. It sometimes forms before birth but is usually found later, when the tumor begins to grow and cause symptoms. In rare cases, neuroblastoma may be found before birth by fetal ultrasound.

By the time neuroblastoma is diagnosed, the cancer has usually metastasized (spread), most often to the lymph nodes, bones, bone marrow, liver, and skin.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography) - CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography, CAT scan) is a procedure that assists in diagnosing tumors, fractures, bony structures, and infections in the organs and tissues of the body.
• High Blood Pressure - Learn about high blood pressure symptoms like headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, blurred vision and more. Causes, and normal blood pressure information is included.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan) - Medical information on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) used in detecting structural abnormalities of the body. Learn uses, risks, and how to prepare for an MRI scan

Read more Neuroblastoma related articles »

Latest Medical News

• Stem Cells Might Reverse Heart Damage From Chemo
• Kids Who Beat Cancer Still Face Heart Risks
• Cancer Signs in Teens Often Overlooked
• After Neuroblastoma, Chronic Problems Often Await