Although neuroblastoma is an uncommon childhood cancer, it does occur and symptoms can vary from child to child. The disease affects the sympathetic nervous system, a network of nerves that carry messages from the brain to various body systems. Doctors may test blood to detect neuroblastoma, as the disease can spread to the bone marrow and other parts of the body. Imaging tests may also be performed to determine the location of the disease, such as an MRI or an ultrasound.
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The first step in diagnosing a neuroblastoma diagnosis is to understand the symptoms. These symptoms vary depending on the size, location, and extent of the cancer. Some symptoms can be related to other ailments, so parents should consult with a doctor if they think they are experiencing any of these signs. Your doctor can determine if your child is suffering from neuroblastoma and recommend a treatment plan that will help them live a normal life.
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Upon diagnosis, neuroblastoma tumors may spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes. As they spread, these tumors may compress nerves, causing weakness or paralysis. They may also release certain substances, known as paraneoplastic syndromes. Some of these substances can cause diarrhea and abdominal swelling. The cancer cells may spread to vital organs, such as the heart.
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Children with neuroblastoma may have very little energy. Their symptoms will depend on where the tumor is located, but initial signs can include aches and pains, loss of appetite, a lump in the abdomen, and difficulty passing urine. Other symptoms may include a lack of sweating and general discomfort. If your child has neuroblastoma, you should seek medical care immediately. It is important to remember that the tumor may spread to other areas of the body.
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In stage 4S neuroblastoma, it has spread to the bone marrow, liver, and skin. If it has spread to these areas, it may appear as a purple or blue bump on the skin. The cancer can even affect the lungs. In some cases, the tumour may spread to the central nervous system. A medical team may try to shrink the tumor to prevent its spread. It is important to remember that neuroblastoma is rare in children under 18 months.
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Children with family members with neuroblastoma are more likely to develop it. However, it is possible to develop neuroblastoma if a child has a congenital anomaly. Other common symptoms include a high blood pressure and a rapid heart rate. Children with neuroblastoma may also experience constipation, upset stomach, and bulging eyes. It is essential to get screened for neuroblastoma as early as possible to prevent it from progressing.
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If you notice any of these symptoms, you should consult your doctor to determine the cause of the tumor and how to treat it. Typically, neuroblastoma begins in the adrenal glands above the kidneys. It may also spread to other parts of the body, including the bones. Sometimes, neuroblastoma is found in the neck or chest. However, it rarely develops in older children. If you suspect your child has neuroblastoma, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible.
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If you have found the tumor in a child, your doctor may decide that chemotherapy is the best course of action. Chemotherapy helps kill cancer cells by stopping them from multiplying. It is generally administered via a vein. The length of the treatment is several weeks or months. The length of time the child undergoes the chemotherapy treatment will depend on the child's risk category. Surgery may not be possible to remove the tumor entirely, so some doctors might try chemotherapy before or after surgery.
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Your child may also have an enlarged lymph node. Lymph nodes are bean-sized collections of immune cells and if cancer has spread to these, they will swell and be visible. These lumps may feel like lumps under the skin. They are usually located in the neck, under the arm, or in the groin. Often, children with enlarged lymph nodes have an infection rather than cancer, but it is important to see a doctor for a diagnosis.
