Neuroblastoma

Daniel's Story

The remarkable story of Daniel's experience with neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma is a rare cancer of the sympathetic nervous system -- a nerve network that carries messages from the brain throughout the body. Each year there are about 700 new cases in the United States. It is usually found in young children, and is the most common cancer among infants. These solid tumors -- which take the form of a lump or mass -- may begin in nerve tissues in the neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, or, most commonly, in the adrenal gland. They may also spread to other areas of the body, including bone and bone marrow.

The cause of neuroblastoma is unknown, but most physicians believe that it is an accidental growth that occurs during normal development of the sympathetic nervous system.

Treatment for neuroblastoma differs depending on many factors, particularly the stage of the disease and the age of the patient. Neuroblastomas that have recurred, or come back, may require different types of medicine. The main goal of our neuroblastoma program at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center is to minimize the use of the most toxic forms of treatment, such as chemotherapy and radiation, and to maximize the use of immunotherapy -- a form of treatment that is designed to destroy neuroblastoma cells by strengthening the patient's own immune system.

Our Approach & Expertise
Each year, 90 or more patients come to Memorial Sloan-Kettering seeking treatment for neuroblastoma -- more than any other hospital in the country. As the number of new patients increases, physicians here continue to explore new treatment options.
Our Team of Experts
The medical staff of the Neuroblastoma Program consists of four board-certified pediatric oncologists, five nurse practitioners trained in pediatric oncology, and three research nurses skilled in biologics.
Symptoms
Neuroblastoma's first symptoms are often vague and may include fatigue and loss of appetite. Later on, symptoms depend on where the tumor takes root within the body.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made using either a biopsy of the tumor or the results of urine and bone marrow tests. The treatment each child receives depends on the age at diagnosis, tumor location, stage of disease, and tumor biology.
Staging
The tests used to diagnose neuroblastoma can also be used to determine the stage of the disease. Stage is a term that refers to the location and extent of cancer tumor(s) and cells. Treatment of neuroblastoma can differ widely depending on the stage. The tumor stages outlined below are based on a tumor-staging system used by experts worldwide.
Treatment
Neuroblastomas exhibit a variety of different behaviors. Some will go away without any treatment, and others can be cured by surgery alone. But approximately half of all neuroblastomas have already spread to the bone and bone marrow by the time they are found, and these tumors require more complex treatment.
Innovative Treatments
We have a great deal of experience using the latest therapies to treat all stages and types of neuroblastoma, including the most advanced and aggressive forms.
3F8 Monoclonal Antibody Therapy Q & A
Frequently asked questions about 3F8 monoclonal antibody therapy for neuroblastoma.
Our Clinical Trials
A continually updated listing of Memorial Sloan-Kettering's current clinical trials for neuroblastoma.
Support During Treatment
Undergoing neuroblastoma treatment can be daunting. In addition to medical treatment, patients and their families have emotional, social, and financial issues surrounding a diagnosis of cancer, some of which are related to cancer, while some are a result of treatment. To help ease the difficulty of neuroblastoma treatment, we have a team of professionals whose role it is to help address these needs.
Patient Stories
The stories of Emily and Daniel who were successfully treated for neuroblastoma.
Survivorship
The team of doctors, nurse practitioners, social workers, and others who make up the Long-Term Follow-Up Program is expert at screening for, monitoring, treating, and coordinating the care for medical issues that may arise as a result of having been treated for neuroblastoma.
Selected Readings
Peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters by staff of the Neuroblastoma Program, arranged by subject.