Neuroblastoma Symptoms

NEUROBLASTOMA

DESCRIPTION

A type of cancer that forms from immature nerve cells. It usually begins in the adrenal glands but may also begin in the abdomen, chest or in nerve tissue near the spine. Neuroblastoma most often occurs in children younger than 5 years of age. It is thought to begin before birth.

Symptoms –

Abdominal pain

Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation

Wheezing

Chest pain

Lumps of tissues under the skin

Weight loss

Fever

Bone pain

Risk factors –

Children with a family history of neuroblastoma may be more likely to develop the disease. Yet, familial neuroblastoma is thought to comprise a very small number of neuroblastoma cases. In most cases of neuroblastoma, a cause is never identified

Diagnosis and test –

Physical exam

Blood and urine tests

Imaging tests

Removing a sample of tissue for testing

Removing a sample of bone marrow for testing