How Do You Identify Neuroblastoma?
Neuroblastoma is a disease in which cancer cells form in the nervous tissue. The cancerous tumors frequently originate in the adrenal glands, but also develop in the neck, chest or spinal cord. The exact cause of neurobastoma is unknown, but genetics may play a role. The disease is known to strike children under the age of five, most commonly infants. Some experts believe the tumors form from tissues that typically disappear during fetal development. Usually neuroblastoma goes unnoticed until symptoms manifest, at which point, the cancer has already metastasized or spread. Know the symptoms of neuroblastoma. The most telling symptom may be a lump in the abdomen, neck or chest. Understand this is attributed to a tumor forming in the surrounding tissue or cancer spreading to the bone. Look for the stomach to appear swollen as a tumor in the abdomen may cause constipation. Likewise a tumor in the chest may hinder breathing. Check for problems with the eyes, especially if they appear to bu