If you’ve heard the term neuroblastoma, you probably wonder what it really means. When talking about Neuroblastoma, a cancer that starts in nerve‑tissue cells of young children. Also known as adrenal tumor, it is most common in infants and toddlers. This disease belongs to the broader group of pediatric cancer, cancers that develop before adulthood. In many cases the tumor originates in the adrenal gland, the small organ perched above the kidneys that produces hormones. A key genetic driver is MYCN amplification, a change that makes the tumor grow faster and behave more aggressively.
Diagnosis usually starts with imaging—ultrasound, CT or MRI scans that show the size and location of the mass. A tissue sample obtained through a biopsy confirms the cancer type and lets labs test for MYCN amplification and other genetic markers. Blood and urine tests can also reveal elevated catecholamine levels, another clue that the tumor is producing hormones. Putting these pieces together helps doctors stage the disease, decide whether it’s localized or has spread, and plan the next steps.
Treatment plans are built around three pillars: surgery, chemo‑therapy, and targeted therapies. If the tumor is confined to the adrenal gland, surgeons often remove it entirely. When the disease has spread, chemotherapy shrinks the tumor before surgery or helps control distant spots. Newer approaches like immunotherapy, retinoic acid differentiation therapy, and stem‑cell transplant are added for high‑risk cases, especially when MYCN amplification is present. Prognosis depends on age, stage, and genetic factors—children under 18 months with low‑risk disease often have excellent outcomes, while older kids with amplified MYCN face a tougher road.
Understanding neuroblastoma’s biology, how it’s diagnosed, and the range of treatment options gives families a clearer picture of what to expect. Below you’ll find a collection of articles that dive deeper into specific drugs, side‑effects, and supportive care strategies that are part of the neuroblastoma journey.
