What is a Neuroblastoma?

In my previous blog I began by discussing the differences between benign and malignant tumors and also referencing key terms to understand cancer. If you need a refresher, please visit this website which defines cancer in an easy-to-understand way with video and text explanation. That being said, you may have now guessed that neuroblastoma is a type of cancer - and you are correct.
 
In the coming weeks I will discuss in greater detail how this cancer develops, who is effected, what treatment options are available and the outcomes for those affected. For now, I simply want to define the disease so that we may have a better understanding of what to expect when someone is diagnosed with neuroblastoma.
 
Neuroblastoma is a type of childhood cancer that develops in cells called neuroblasts. As you may have also guessed, "neuro" suggests that these are related to the nervous system - again, yes. Neuroblasts are immature nerve cells that are able to divide and multiply (much like other cells in the body). When neuroblasts are considered to be mature, they become neurons and help many parts of the nervous system function. However, when these immature nerve cells multiply when they are not supposed to or die when they are not supposed to, a child may develop a neuroblastoma.
 
Neuroblastomas are cancerous tumors are commonly found in the adrenal glands (located above the kidney on each side of the body). Tumors may also develop along the spine, in the abdomen or any place where there is a bundle of nerve fibers, commonly referred to as ganglion. As previously stated, I will discuss the cause of the disease in greater detail in the coming weeks.
 
Stay tuned...


Above: Support ribbon to find a cure for childhood cancer
Original image found here

 

 



Sources:

http://www.cancer.org/cancer/neuroblastoma/detailedguide/neuroblastoma-what-is-neuroblastoma

http://www.cancercenter.com/discussions/blog/anatomy-of-cancer/?source=MSNPPC&channel=paid+search&c=paid+search%3AMSN%3ANational+Cancer+Types+%28New%29Exact%3Acancer+definition%3AExact&OVMTC=e&OVKEY=cancer+definition&url_id=190102133&device=c

http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Neuroblasts