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Neuroblastoma

Also called: Ganglioneuroblastoma

The most common cancer in babies. Some types go away on their own; others need intensive treatment.

Typical ageUnder 5
Most common siteAdrenal gland

Overview

Neuroblastoma varies widely. Some tumors in babies shrink without treatment, while high-risk neuroblastoma needs intensive treatment.

Treatment depends on the risk group and may include observation, surgery, chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, radiation, and immunotherapy.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Lump or swelling in the belly
  • Bone pain or limping
  • Bruising or dark circles around the eyes

Less common

  • Fever and tiredness
  • Bulging eyes
  • Drooping eyelid or uneven pupils

Look up a symptom: Child limping or refusing to walk · Fever · Leg aches at night in a child · Lump or swelling in a child's belly · Swollen or puffy eyelid or eye · Watery eye or droopy eyelid on the same side

When to get medical care

Call 911Trouble breathing, heavy bleeding, a seizure, sudden confusion, or fainting: call 911.
Get care todayFever during cancer treatment, or new or quickly worsening symptoms.
See a doctor soonSymptoms lasting more than 2 to 3 weeks.

Causes

Changes in a cell's genes that make it grow out of control. Most happen by chance; some are linked to the risk factors below or to inherited genes.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • Cancer isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Family history (rare inherited forms)

Diagnosis

Tests look for the cause. Many people checked for these symptoms turn out not to have cancer.

Questions you may be asked

  • When symptoms started and whether they're getting worse
  • Family history of cancer
  • Past illnesses, treatments, and exposures

The exam

A physical exam, focused on where the symptoms are.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Ultrasound, CT, or MRI:
  • Urine catecholamine tests:
  • Biopsy and MIBG scan:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and your child's overall health. A cancer care team makes a plan with you.

Self-care

  • Write down symptoms and when they started
  • Bring someone with you to appointments
  • Ask for copies of test results
  • Ask about clinical trials: they can offer new treatments

Watching, surgery, chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, radiation, or immunotherapy.

Prevention

To lower risk or find it early:

  • No known way to prevent it

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your child's pediatrician.
  • They'll send you to a pediatric oncologist (children's cancer doctor) at a children's cancer center.

Living with it

  • Keep a simple notebook of symptoms, medicines, and questions for visits.
  • Ask for a survivorship care plan when treatment ends.
  • Gentle activity, like walking, can ease tiredness.
  • A cancer diagnosis can affect mood. Tell the care team if you or your family feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most children can return to school during or after treatment.
  • Ask the care team about a school liaison and a 504 plan or IEP for extra help.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Children: Children with cancer do best at a children's cancer center, where care teams also help with school, growth, and long-term health.

For caregivers

  • Go to visits when you can and take notes.
  • Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
  • Learn the warning signs that need fast care, like fever during treatment.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Outlook depends on the type and stage. Cancers found early are usually easier to treat, and treatments keep improving.

Support is available: ask about social workers, nutrition help, and support groups.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started
  • Past test results and scans

Questions to ask

  • What is my child's risk group?
  • Does my child need treatment now, or can it be watched?
  • What stage is it, and what are the treatment options?
  • Are there clinical trials for my child?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Neuroblastoma

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.