Diagnosing neuroblastoma involves several steps:

1. Health History and Physical Exam: The doctor assesses symptoms and checks for physical signs like lumps or swollen lymph nodes.
2. Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRIs, and MIBG scans help locate tumors and determine their size and spread.
3. Tissue Biopsy: A sample of the tumor is examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.
4. Urine Catecholamine Tests: Measures HVA, VMA, and other catecholamines like dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine which are often elevated.5. Bone Marrow Tests: These determine if cancer has spread to the bones.
5. Blood Tests: Includes CBC, LDH levels, and chemistry panels for organ function and tumor burden indicators. Second opinions can be valuable for confirming diagnoses and exploring treatment options, including clinical trials, as they may lead to significant changes in treatment plans.

Key Takeaways for Families

• Early recognition of symptoms and prompt medical evaluation are critical.
• Diagnosis involves a combination of imaging, lab tests, and biopsies.
• Treatment options include a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplants, immunotherapy and maintenance therapy including DFMO.
• Survival rates vary by age and risk group; younger children with low risk disease

Understanding neuroblastoma empowers families to make informed decisions about care and treatment while dispelling myths surrounding this challenging condition.

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This article was created with support from Beat Childhood Cancer to help raise awareness about neuroblastoma and its early warning signs.

Citations:

1. Beat Childhood Cancer – Neuroblastoma: Read More
2. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital – Neuroblastoma: Read More
3. Care Options for Kids – Caring for a Child with Neuroblastoma Read More
4. Medical News Today – Neuroblastoma: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment: Read More
5. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center – Neuroblastoma Diagnosis: Read More
6. PubMed – Clinical Value of Second Opinions in Oncology: Read More