Neuroblastoma is a form of cancer that originates in nerve tissue and spreads throughout the body. For this reason, the symptoms of neuroblastoma tend to vary widely, according to which part or parts of the body are affected. Symptoms most often present themselves in the abdomen, though they are also common in the chest. Wherever they affect the body, the overall symptoms of neuroblastoma typically include masses or lumps growing under the skin, pain in the area of the growth, and general aches and pains throughout the body.
The most common signs of abdominal neuroblastoma include the growth of masses under the skin that do not hurt to the touch, though the general area may be painful. Patients may also develop a swollen stomach and legs. Diarrhea or other bowel abnormalities may appear as well.
Symptoms of neuroblastoma in the chest include pain in that general area and wheezing or other breathing problems due to the growth of the tumor. The patient may also develop unequal pupil size, drooping eyelids, and other changes in the eye. Visible lumps can also appear in the area.
In addition to the common symptom of lumps under the skin, a patient that develops neuroblastoma in other parts of the body may have bulging eyeballs and bruise-like, dark eye circles. Pain and lesions can also develop in the bones and back. If a tumor grows on the spine, it may impede the individual’s ability to crawl or walk. Some patients also report mysterious weight loss, fever, and an overall feeling of general illness.
Neuroblastoma usually develops in the adrenal glands. It is nearly impossible to diagnose symptoms of neuroblastoma at this early stage. The condition usually spreads to other parts of the body before it is discovered.
This form of cancer is most common in children under the age of five. The condition is also the most widespread cancer among young children. Though it has historically not been understood what causes neuroblastoma, it has been found to have a connection to genetics in some cases.
Patients with neuroblastoma are typically categorized as low, intermediate, or high risk. Most cases are low risk and will either resolve themselves or be completely cured by surgery. Cases at the intermediate level are generally treated with surgery and followed by chemotherapy. In addition to the methods used to treat the condition at an intermediate level, high risk neuroblatoma may require stem cell or bone marrow transplants and antibody therapy.