Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that usually occurs in children. Neuroblastoma is a type of tumor that originates in the nervous system, where nerve cells (neuroblasts) are formed. This tumor can occur in various parts of the nervous system, usually in the adrenal glands (adrenal glands), chest, abdomen, pelvis or spinal cord. Its treatment can involve a variety of methods, depending on factors such as the size of the tumor, its spread and the general health of the patient. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy.
Neuroblastoma is a common type of pediatric cancer and treatment success rates can often vary depending on the stage, type and other factors. With early detection and appropriate treatment, it is possible to improve the health status of children, but the treatment process can be challenging.
What Causes Neuroblastoma?
The exact cause of neuroblastoma is not known, but a number of genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role. Neuroblastoma originates from neural stem cells, which are normally involved in the formation of nerve cells during embryonic development. Neuroblastoma can develop due to uncontrolled growth and division of these cells. Potential causes may include:
Genetic Factors: Neuroblastoma often occurs due to genetic changes. In some children, these genetic changes are inherited. In particular, amplification of a gene called MYCN can increase the risk of developing neuroblastoma.
Family History: Children with a family history of neuroblastoma may have a slightly higher risk of developing this type of cancer.
Age Factor: Neuroblastoma usually occurs in young children, usually children under the age of 5. This suggests that nerve cells tend to form this type of tumor during embryonic development.
Environmental Factors: It is thought that environmental factors may also contribute to the development of neuroblastoma. However, although these factors have not been clearly identified, it is thought that certain chemicals, infections or other environmental factors exposed during pregnancy may play a role.
What are the symptoms of neuroblastoma?
Symptoms of neuroblastoma can vary depending on the size, location and presence of the tumor and the child's general health. These symptoms can often be similar to other more common childhood diseases. However, the following symptoms may suggest neuroblastoma:
- Bloating in the abdomen,
- Pain or tenderness in the abdomen,
- Weight loss without loss of appetite,
- Fatigue and weakness,
- Bone pain or lameness,
- Difficulty breathing, coughing or chest pain,
- Pupil asymmetry
- If it develops close to the nervous system, the child may experience nervous system symptoms such as headaches, coordination problems or dizziness.
How is neuroblastoma diagnosed?
Diagnosis of neuroblastoma begins with an assessment of the child's symptoms and risk factors. A physical examination and imaging tests such as ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and meta-iodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scan are used.
Blood and urine tests, neuroblastoma marker tests, blood counts and various biochemical measurements are performed. Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy may be performed to assess tumor spread within the bone marrow.
Genetic testing can also help identify genetic changes in tumor cells. Based on the results of these tests, the child is diagnosed with neuroblastoma and the treatment plan is determined depending on the stage of the tumor and other factors.
How is neuroblastoma treated?
Neuroblastoma treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach that includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, high-dose chemotherapy and various methods such as stem cell transplantation, immunotherapy and retinoid therapy. This treatment plan is determined depending on the stage of the tumor, the child's general health and other factors.
Surgery aims to remove the tumor, chemotherapy targets neuroblastoma cells, while radiotherapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. High-dose chemotherapy and stem cell transplants aim to regenerate bone marrow and blood cells.
Immunotherapy boosts the body's own immune system, while retinoid therapy targets neuroblastoma cells with vitamin A derivatives. The course of treatment is tailored to the individual needs of the child, with an assessment by a pediatric oncologist.