Neuroblastoma

Alternative names:

pepper's syndrome

Treatment:

Treatment varies depending on the location of the tumor and extent of tumor spread. Surgery is usually indicated. This includes removal of all or part of the tumor and surrounding lymph nodes. Radiation therapy may also be advised. Anticancer medications (chemotherapy) may be recommended if the tumor is widespread. A bone marrow transplant may be advised if the tumor has spread to the bone marrow.

The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See cancer - support group.

Expectations (prognosis):

The expected outcome varies. Some children with neuroblastoma experience spontaneous regression of the tumor, where the tissues of the tumor mature and develop into a benign ganglioneuroma that can be surgically removed. In other cases, the tumor spreads rapidly.

Response to treatment is variable; response is often quite successful if treatment begins before the tumor has spread. If cancer is widespread, survival is often less than 10%, although bone marrow transplant increases the chance of survival to 25%.

Complications:

• spread (metastasis) of the tumor
• damage and loss of function of involved organ(s)
  • kidney failure
  • liver failure
  • loss of blood cells produced by the bone marrow
  • decreased resistance to infection
  • other organ system losses

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate neuroblastoma may be present. Early diagnosis and treatment improves the chance of a good outcome.