Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that often begins in the adrenal glands that sit on top of the kidneys. A neuroblastoma tumor may also form in the:

  • Nerve cells outside the brain
  • Spine
  • Neck
  • Chest
  • Abdomen
  • Pelvis

Neuroblastomas can form before birth and sometimes are detected on fetal scans. Most children are diagnosed before age 5. Neuroblastomas often spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms depend on where the neuroblastoma begins and include:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Lumps
  • Fever

Treatments include:

  • Surgery to remove tumor
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation
  • Stem cell transplant
  • Immunotherapy to help the body's immune system fight the cancer