What is neuroblastoma cancer?

Neuroblastoma is a type of childhood cancer that starts in the cells of the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system controls many bodily functions, such as heart rate, breathing, and digestion. Neuroblastoma cancer can occur anywhere in the body, but it is most commonly found in the abdomen, chest, and neck.

Neuroblastoma is the most common type of cancer in infants and the third most common type of cancer in children under the age of 5. It occurs in about 1 in every 100,000 children.

The exact cause of neuroblastoma is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a genetic mutation that occurs during fetal development. Some children who develop neuroblastoma have a family history of the disease.

Neuroblastoma can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on its location and size. Some common symptoms include:

* Abdominal pain

* Back pain

* Diarrhea

* Constipation

* Difficulty breathing

* Hoarseness

* Unexplained weight loss

* Fever

* Fatigue

Neuroblastoma is diagnosed with a variety of tests, including:

* Physical exam

* Blood tests

* Imaging tests (such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs)

* Biopsy

The treatment for neuroblastoma depends on the stage of the disease and the child's overall health. Treatment options may include:

* Surgery

* Radiation therapy

* Chemotherapy

* Immunotherapy

* Stem cell transplant

The outlook for children with neuroblastoma depends on the stage of the disease at diagnosis and the child's overall health. The earlier the disease is diagnosed and treated, the better the outlook.