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Condition

Pediatric Neuroblastoma

What is neuroblastoma?

Neuroblastoma is a cancerous tumor that begins in nerve tissue of infants and very young children. The abnormal cells are often found in the nerve tissue that is present in the unborn baby and later develops into a detectable tumor. Neuroblastoma is rare in kids older than 10 years of age; however, it does occur occasionally in adults.

The tumor usually begins in the tissues of the adrenal gland found in the abdomen, but may also begin in nerve tissue in the neck, chest, or spinal cord. The adrenal glands are positioned on top of the kidneys. These glands secrete hormones and other important substances that are required for normal functions in the body.

Neuroblastoma cancer cells can spread (metastasize) quickly to other areas of the body (for example, lymph nodes, liver, lungs, bones, central nervous system and bone marrow). Approximately two-thirds of all children diagnosed with neuroblastoma will have some metastatic disease.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Treatment for neuroblastoma

Long-term outlook for a child with neuroblastoma

    Departments that Treat Neuroblastoma

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    Blood and Marrow Transplant

    Our blood and bone marrow disease experts provide advanced transplant procedures for children and teenagers.

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    Solid Tumor Program

    Our Solid Tumor Program has a dedicated team of sarcoma experts who specialize in the newest treatments and clinical trials.

    Pediatric Autologous Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program

    Our goal is to provide specialized therapy for children in an effort to restore their health using the most advanced and least invasive treatments possible.