Neuroblastoma forms in the developing nerve cells, or neurons, of the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system is part of the autonomic nervous system, which helps control body functions like breathing, blood pressure and digestion.
According to the American Cancer Society, about 700 cases of neuroblastoma are diagnosed each year in the United States. This accounts for about 7% of pediatric cancers.
The most common cancer in infants, neuroblastoma is the fourth most common in all children. It almost always develops before age 5, and the average age of diagnosis is between 1 and 2 years. Occasionally, it can be seen in an ultrasound before a baby is born.
Neuroblastoma formation
Most neuroblastomas develop in the adrenal glands, abdomen or nerve cells next to the spinal cord, called ganglia. They also can occur in the neck, chest or spine.
Some neuroblastomas grow quickly; others grow slowly. When neuroblastoma develops in infancy, it often is less aggressive and can even become benign. In children over 18 months, it tends to be more dangerous.
If neuroblastoma grows in the process of treatment, it is called progressive neuroblastoma. If it comes back after treatment, it is called recurrent neuroblastoma. The pediatric cancer specialists at Children’s Cancer Hospital have an exceptional level of expertise in treating all forms of neuroblastoma.
Learn more about neuroblastoma:
In rare cases, neuroblastoma can be passed down from one generation to the next. Genetic counseling may be right for you. Visit our genetic testing page to learn more.
Why choose MD Anderson for neuroblastoma treatment?
From diagnosis through survivorship, each neuroblastoma patient at MD Anderson's Children's Cancer Hospital is cared for by a highly specialized team of experts. This team follows your child closely, communicating frequently with your family and each other to provide the best possible care.
We are among the world's leading authorities in neuroblastoma, and we draw upon the most advanced therapies, technology and techniques to diagnose and treat your child.
Comprehensive care
Surgery is often a part of neuroblastoma treatment, and our surgeons have a high level of expertise and skill, which helps increase the chances of successful treatment. In addition, we offer the very latest in chemotherapy options.
Children's Cancer Hospital offers clinical trials for innovative new treatments for neuroblastoma. And, behind the scenes we are working on groundbreaking basic science research to change the future of pediatric cancer.
Treating the whole child
Children's Cancer Hospital is designed just for children, with a full range of services and amenities that help make the child and family's experience as comfortable as possible. We go beyond medical care to deliver a comprehensive experience that treats the whole child.
And at Children's Cancer Hospital, your child benefits from the expertise and resources of one of the nation's top cancer centers.
We would have tried anything to make him well, but we couldn’t have asked for better care.
MD Anderson's Children's Cancer Hospital
