General Information About Neuroblastoma
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It occurs when immature nerve cells (neuroblasts), which are supposed to form the nervous system during embryonic development in the womb, fail to develop normally and become malignant, forming tumors.
It most commonly originates in the abdominal region from the adrenal glands located immediately above the kidneys. It can also develop in the nerve tissues around the neck, chest, and spinal cord.
Tümörün yerine göre değişir. Karında sert ve ağrısız bir şişlik, açıklanamayan ateş, kemiklere sıçradıysa (metastaz) kemik ağrıları, göz çevresinde morluklar (rakun gözü) ve kilo kaybıdır.
Approximately 1% to 2% of cases are linked to familial genetic mutations (such as the ALK gene). The vast remaining majority of cases result from somatic cellular errors acquired later in life and are not hereditary.
The mass is identified via abdominal Ultrasound or MRI. Levels of catecholamine metabolites (VMA/HVA) secreted by the tumor in the urine are elevated. A definitive diagnosis is established via a biopsy obtained from the mass or the bone marrow.
Low-risk tumors can often be completely treated solely through surgical excision. In high-risk and metastatic cases, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, smart drugs (immunotherapy), and stem cell transplantation are implemented.
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