Neuroblastoma Research Paper

Etiology Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that most commonly arises from the adrenal glands, in the ganglia of the nervous system or abdomen, and it is most common in children under the age of five. The cause of Neuroblastoma is still unknown. Recent researchers believe that Neuroblastoma can be inherited by the parents, a gene mutation can be passed on to the child that starts the process of Neuroblastoma. Also, Neuroblastoma is sometimes caused by cells that fail to mature or develop into normal functioning nerve or adrenal cells, and these cells will just keep growing and multiplying. These immature cells will normally start in the fetus.
Sign and Symptoms A child may be suffering from Neuroblastoma and not even know it. By the time the child starts to show any signs or symptoms usually the cancer has spread. Most commonly the signs and symptoms start by the tumors growing and pressing on nearby bone or tissue. The child will normally have a large lump in their abdomen, chest or neck causing severe pain. Other symptoms include, eyes that are bulging and have dark rings around them, aching bones, trouble breathing, and weakness. Fever, high blood pressure, persistent sweating and diarrhea have also been
First, a blood and urine test would be done to check for certain amounts of substances in the body. Like, Homovanillic acid (HVA), Vanillylmadelic acid (VMA), and hormones. If they are higher or lower then normal, it could be a sign of Neuroblastoma. A CT scan and MRI are other techniques the physician would use in order to diagnose Neuroblastoma. The CT scan and MRI will take detailed pictures of the inside of the body so that the physician can locate where the tumors are. A biopsy will also be done to confirm the child has Neuroblastoma. A biopsy is the removal of tissue and cells from the tumor, and they are then viewed under a microscope to check for the