Ganglioneuroblastoma

This is a very rare tumor that occurs in children.

Tumors of the nervous system have different degrees of differentiation. The degree of differentiation is based on how the tumor cells look under the microscope. It can predict whether or not they are likely to spread.

Benign tumors are less likely to spread. Malignant tumors are aggressive, grow quickly, and often spread. A ganglioneuroma is a benign tumor. A neuroblastoma (occurring in children over 1 year old) is usually malignant.

A ganglioneuroblastoma may be only in one area or it may be widespread, but it is usually less aggressive than a neuroblastoma. The cause is unknown.

Most commonly, a lump can be felt in the abdomen.

The health care provider may do the following tests:

• Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy
• Bone scan
• CT scan or MRI scan of the affected area
• Metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scan
• Special blood and urine tests
• Surgical biopsy to confirm diagnosis

Depending on the type of tumor, treatment can involve surgery, and possibly chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Because these tumors are rare, they should be treated in a specialized center by experts who have experience with them.

Organizations that provide support and additional information:

• Children's Oncology Group -- www.childrensoncologygroup.org
• The Neuroblastoma Children's Cancer Society -- www.neuroblastomacancer.org

The outlook depends on how far the tumor has spread, and whether some areas of the tumor contain more aggressive cancer cells.

Complications that may result include:

• Complications of surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy
• Spread of the tumor into surrounding areas

Call your provider if you feel a lump or growth on your child's body. Make sure children receive routine examinations as part of their well-child care.