Neuroblastoma Tumor in Children: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Cure

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Neuroblastoma Tumor in Children

Neuroblastoma tumor is a type of cancer that develops from immature nerve cells found in various parts of the body. It most commonly affects infants and young children. 

Here are some key points about neuroblastoma in children:

• Origination: Neuroblastoma typically originates in 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.
• Common Age Group: Neuroblastoma tumor is most frequently diagnosed in children under the age of 5, and it rarely occurs in older children.
• Symptoms: The symptoms of neuroblastoma can vary depending on where the tumor is located and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. Common symptoms may include abdominal swelling, a lump or mass in the abdomen, bone pain, fever, and weight loss.
• Diagnosis: Diagnosis often involves a combination of imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, and a biopsy to examine a sample of the tumor tissue.
• Staging: Neuroblastoma is staged based on the extent of the disease, which includes factors such as the size and location of the tumor, whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs, and certain genetic factors.
• Treatment: Treatment for neuroblastoma depends on the child’s age, the stage of the cancer, and other factors. Options may include surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplantation, immunotherapy, or a combination of these approaches.
• Prognosis: The prognosis for children with neuroblastoma varies widely depending on the stage of the cancer and other factors. Some cases may be cured with treatment, while others may be more difficult to treat, especially if the cancer has spread extensively.
• Research and Advances: Ongoing research is focused on improving the understanding of neuroblastoma biology, identifying new treatment approaches, and developing targeted therapies that may be more effective and less toxic than traditional treatments.

Overall, neuroblastoma tumor is a complex disease that requires a multidisciplinary approach to treatment involving pediatric oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. 

What are the symptoms of neuroblastoma in children ?

Neuroblastoma tumor symptoms can vary widely depending on factors such as the location and size of the tumor, whether it has spread to other parts of the body, and the child’s age. Some children with neuroblastoma may not exhibit any symptoms until the cancer has advanced. 

However, common signs and symptoms of neuroblastoma tumor in children may include:

• Abdominal Swelling: A lump or mass in the abdomen is one of the most common signs of neuroblastoma. This swelling may cause the abdomen to appear distended or bloated.
• Pain: Children with neuroblastoma may experience pain, discomfort, or tenderness in the abdomen, chest, or bones. Bone pain may be particularly noticeable if the cancer has spread to the bones.
• Changes in Bowel Habits: Neuroblastoma tumor can sometimes cause changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea.
• Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss or a decrease in appetite may occur in children with neuroblastoma.
• Fatigue: Children with neuroblastoma may seem unusually tired or lethargic, which can be a sign of anemia or the body’s response to the cancer.
• Fever: A persistent fever that is not due to an obvious cause, such as an infection, may be a symptom of neuroblastoma.
• Bulging Eyes: In some cases, neuroblastoma can cause proptosis, or bulging of the eyes, due to pressure from a tumor located behind the eye sockets.
• Skin Changes: Rarely, neuroblastoma may cause certain skin changes, such as blue or purple discoloration around the eyes or on the eyelids (known as periorbital ecchymosis or “raccoon eyes”).

Note that these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than neuroblastoma tumor, and having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean a child has cancer. ( Know more about- What are Children Cancer and Children Cancer Treatment? )

How is neuroblastoma in children diagnosed ?

Neuroblastoma tumor in children is diagnosed through a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests. Here’s an overview of the diagnostic process for neuroblastoma:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: The healthcare provider will begin by taking a detailed medical history, including asking about the child’s symptoms, any family history of cancer or genetic disorders, and other relevant information. A thorough physical examination will also be conducted to look for signs of neuroblastoma tumor, such as abdominal swelling or lumps.
• Imaging Studies: Imaging tests are typically used to visualize the tumor and determine its size, location, and extent. Common imaging studies used in the diagnosis of neuroblastoma include:
  • Ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging technique uses sound waves to create images of the internal organs and tissues. Ultrasound is often used to examine abdominal masses and determine whether they may be neuroblastomas.
  • Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: CT scans provide detailed cross-sectional images of the body, allowing healthcare providers to assess the size and location of the tumor, as well as whether it has spread to nearby structures or organs.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body’s internal structures. MRI may be used to further evaluate the extent of the tumor and its relationship to surrounding tissues.
  • Metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) Scan: This specialized nuclear medicine imaging test involves injecting a radioactive tracer into the bloodstream, which is taken up by neuroblastoma cells. The tracer emits gamma rays that can be detected by a gamma camera, allowing healthcare providers to identify areas of neuroblastoma within the body.
  • Bone Scans: Bone scans may be performed to determine whether the neuroblastoma tumor has spread to the bones. In this test, a small amount of radioactive material is injected into the bloodstream, and a special camera is used to detect areas of abnormal bone activity.
• Biopsy: A biopsy involves taking a sample of tissue from the tumor to examine it under a microscope and confirm the diagnosis of neuroblastoma. The biopsy is typically performed under sedation or anesthesia by a pediatric surgeon or interventional radiologist. Different types of biopsy techniques may be used depending on the location and size of the tumor, including fine-needle aspiration, core biopsy, or surgical biopsy.
• Laboratory Tests: Laboratory tests may be performed on the biopsy sample to analyze the tumor cells and identify specific genetic and molecular characteristics of the neuroblastoma. These tests can help guide treatment decisions and prognosis.

Once a diagnosis of neuroblastoma tumor is confirmed, additional tests may be performed to determine the stage of the cancer and assess whether it has spread to other parts of the body. This staging process helps healthcare providers develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to the child’s individual needs. ( Know more about- What is Lymphoma ? )

Can neuroblastoma in children be completely cured ?

Neuroblastoma tumor treatment outcomes vary widely depending on factors such as the stage of the cancer, the age of the child, the tumor’s location, and other biological features of the disease. While some cases of neuroblastoma in children can be completely cured with current treatment approaches, others may be more challenging to treat, especially if the cancer has spread extensively or if it has certain high-risk features.

The prognosis for neuroblastoma tumor is generally more favorable for children diagnosed with low- or intermediate-risk disease compared to those with high-risk disease. High-risk neuroblastoma is more likely to recur and can be more difficult to treat successfully.

Treatment for neuroblastoma may involve a combination of approaches, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplantation, and immunotherapy. Advances in treatment strategies and supportive care have led to improvements in outcomes for children with neuroblastoma in recent years.

For children with low- or intermediate-risk neuroblastoma tumors, the chances of complete cure are generally higher, and long-term survival rates can be excellent with appropriate treatment. In contrast, children with high-risk neuroblastoma may face a more challenging prognosis, despite intensive multimodal therapy.

Ongoing research efforts are focused on improving our understanding of neuroblastoma tumor biology, identifying new treatment targets, and developing more effective and less toxic therapies. Clinical trials play a crucial role in evaluating new treatments and improving outcomes for children with neuroblastoma.

Overall, while neuroblastoma tumor in children can be a serious and complex disease, many children can achieve complete remission and long-term survival with appropriate treatment and supportive care. Families work closely with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers experienced in treating pediatric cancers to develop an individualized treatment plan and provide ongoing support throughout the treatment process. Get best treatment for neuroblastoma and early diagnosis of tumors at best hospitals in India, by full body health checkup .