Neuroblastoma

Overview

Mayo Clinic efficiently coordinates the medical specialists and testing required for successful diagnosis and treatment of neuroblastoma. Mayo's multispecialty group practice promotes close integration of the required specialties and subspecialties.

Diagnosis

If neuroblastoma tumors are diagnosed at an early stage and for very young patients, the cure rate is nearly 100 percent. World-renowned physicians at Mayo Clinic use the most up-to-date diagnostic studies to determine each patient's condition. Read more about neuroblastoma diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Expert pediatric oncologists treat neuroblastoma patients at Mayo Clinic. They use the latest surgical techniques, chemotherapy regimens, and sometimes radiation therapy to increase the likelihood of treatment success. Patients have the opportunity to try investigational treatments through clinical trials. Read more about neuroblastoma treatment options.

• Treatment in Minnesota

About Neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma begins in nerve tissues in the abdomen, pelvis, neck, or chest. The tumors often grow rapidly and, when they spread into other organs or parts of the body, are difficult to treat successfully. Neuroblastoma is one of the more common forms of cancer in infants and children. Physicians diagnose approximately 525 cases in the United States each year. Neuroblastoma occurs in about 10 per one million children. Experts do not know its cause, and many cases may actually be present at birth. The disease is usually found before the child reaches age 2.

Read more about neuroblastoma at MayoClinic.com.