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Neuroblastom

Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that most often affects children. Neuroblastoma occurs when immature nerve cells called neuroblasts become abnormal and multiply uncontrollably to form a tumour. Most commonly, the tumour originates in the nerve tissue of the adrenal gland located above each kidney. Other common sites for tumours to form include the nerve tissue in the abdomen, chest, neck, or pelvis. Neuroblastoma can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body such as the bones, liver, or skin.

Beskrivning

Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that most often affects children. Neuroblastoma occurs when immature nerve cells called neuroblasts become abnormal and multiply uncontrollably to form a tumour. Most commonly, the tumour originates in the nerve tissue of the adrenal gland located above each kidney. Other common sites for tumours to form include the nerve tissue in the abdomen, chest, neck, or pelvis. Neuroblastoma can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body such as the bones, liver, or skin.

Individuals with neuroblastoma may develop general signs and symptoms such as irritability, fever, tiredness (fatigue), pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, or diarrhea. More specific signs and symptoms depend on the location of the tumour and where it has spread. A tumour in the abdomen can cause abdominal swelling. A tumour in the chest may lead to difficulty breathing. A tumour in the neck can cause nerve damage known as Horner syndrome, which leads to drooping eyelids, small pupils, decreased sweating, and red skin. Tumour metastasis to the bone can cause bone pain, bruises, pale skin, or dark circles around the eyes. Tumours in the backbone can press on the spinal cord and cause weakness, numbness, or paralysis in the arms or legs. A rash of bluish or purplish bumps that look like blueberries indicates that the neuroblastoma has spread to the skin.

In addition, neuroblastoma tumours can release hormones that may cause other signs and symptoms such as high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, flushing of the skin, and sweating. In rare instances, individuals with neuroblastoma may develop opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome, which causes rapid eye movements and jerky muscle motions. This condition occurs when the immune system malfunctions and attacks nerve tissue.

Neuroblastoma occurs most often in children before age 5 and rarely occurs in adults.

Inheritance patterns

The source lists the following possible inheritance patterns: Autosomal dominant; Not inherited. More than one pattern can apply in different cases.

Other names

NB

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Artikelhistorik

Informationen på denna sida är skriven och granskad av kvalificerade kliniker.
  • 8 Sept 2020 | Senaste versionen
  • 1 Mar 2011 | Ursprungligen publicerad

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