Gavin Lindberg details his family’s experience with neuroblastoma, provides advice to families, and discusses the EVAN Foundation.
Neuroblastoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor that develops from neuroblasts, or immature nerve tissue. It most often develops in infancy and may be diagnosed in the first month of life. Most cases present before the age of 5.
The tumor most often develops in the adrenal gland, but may develop in the neck, chest, or spinal cord. It is considered an aggressive tumor because it often spreads to other parts of the body, frequently before it is diagnosed. Neuroblastoma can cause a variety of signs and symptoms, including a lump where the tumor is growing, bone pain, diarrhea, and various neurological symptoms.
The cause of most neuroblastomas is not known. Rarely, a neuroblastoma is caused by an inherited genetic change in a gene, such as the ALK gene or PHOX2B gene. However, many biological markers of neuroblastoma have been discovered, of which the most important is MYCN. This oncogene is overexpressed in nearly 25% of patients with neuroblastoma
Diagnosing neuroblastoma may rely on a physical examination, blood tests, imaging tests (such as MRI or CT scan) and ultimately, a biopsy. Studies are typically done on CBC, renal function, liver function, electrolytes, and LDH.
For more information on neuroblastoma, visit our Neuroblastoma Learning Page.