Pediatric Neuroblastoma

At UM Children’s Hospital, you can get help for your child’s neuroblastoma, from diagnosis to treatment to follow-up care.  

Choose UM Children’s for Neuroblastoma Care

While neuroblastoma is a serious diagnosis, significant advancements have been made in treatment options, and many children respond well to therapy. The UM Children's Hospital team will be by your side every step of the way, supporting your family throughout the journey.

We have many resources you can rely on during your child’s treatment, like support groups, child life specialists and social workers. Our specialists are here to answer all your questions.

To discuss your child’s neuroblastoma diagnosis or related concerns, call 410-328-2808 for an appointment.

What Is Neuroblastoma?

Neuroblastoma is a rare type of cancer that starts in immature nerve cells called neuroblasts. These cells are normally found in an embryo and develop into mature nerve cells after birth, as a child grows. In some cases, the cells grow abnormally and form a tumor.

It often starts in the belly, near the adrenal glands located above the kidneys, but it can also develop in other areas like the chest, neck or pelvis. Neuroblastomas can grow quickly or slowly. Sometimes when children are very young, the tumor can go away on its own. Other times the cells stop dividing and turn into benign tumors.

Neuroblastoma affects about one in 7,000 children. It is most often diagnosed in children under the age of 5, with the average age being around 18 months. It affects slightly more boys than girls. Although uncommon, it can occur in older children and teenagers.

Signs and Symptoms of Neuroblastoma in Kids

Symptoms of neuroblastoma can vary depending on the location of the tumor and whether it has spread. Some common symptoms include:

• A lump in the abdomen, neck, chest or other parts of the body
• Pain in the abdomen, bones or back
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Blue or purple spots on the skin
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, please consult your pediatrician right away. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving the chances of a successful outcome.

Diagnosing Pediatric Neuroblastoma

If your child shows symptoms suggestive of neuroblastoma, their doctor will order various tests, including blood tests, imaging scans (like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs) and a biopsy (taking a small tissue sample for examination). Based on the results, doctors will determine the stage of the cancer, which indicates how advanced it is and whether it has spread.

How to Treat Neuroblastoma

The specific treatment plan will be tailored to your child's individual needs and the stage of the cancer. Treatment for neuroblastoma typically involves a combination of therapies, including:

• Chemotherapy – powerful medications that kill cancer cells
• Radiation and nuclear medicine therapy – high-energy beams and isotopes that target and destroy cancer cells
• Surgery – removing the tumor as completely as possible
• Immunotherapy – using the body's own immune system to fight cancer cells
• Stem cell transplant – replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells