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Neuroblastoma

By Philip E. Gleason, MD

Neuroblastomas are one of the most common tumors in infants and children. They develop along a spectrum of neuro-endocrine tissue.

As such, they usually present as an abdominal mass. However, they can be found anywhere neuro-endocrine tissue is found in the body. They can also produce neuro-endocrine chemicals. Most neuroblastomas have metastasized and spread within the body at the time of diagnosis.

As such, Neuroblastomas are confirmed, and staged, with several x-rays and tests to evaluate their full extent.

The diagnosis of neuroblastoma is confirmed with exploration of the tumor. If possible, the tumor is removed. If not, a biopsy of the tumor is performed and the tumor is staged both by surgery and by x-rays to evaluate the tumor's full extent and prognosis.

The overall treatment of Neuroblastomas is multi-modal surgery and chemotherapy. Some of these children may be candidates for bone marrow transplants. Their prognosis depends on the stage and risk factors of the tumor.