Overview
The nervous system is the network of nerves which carry carries messages from the brain throughout the body.
The cancer which affects this sympathetic nervous system is the neuroblastoma.
In this neuroblastoma the tumors are formed in the adrenal glands initially and start developing in the nerve tissues in the neck, chest, abdomen, or pelvis. They start as the accumulation of the malignant cells in this nervous system which form lump or mass resulting in tumor development.
According to the research the exact cause of this neuroblastoma is unknown. But it is believed that it is an accidental growth of cells which takes place during normal development of the adrenal glands.
Neuroblastoma is considered as the rare human malignancies which are known to demonstrate spontaneous regression. This regression occurs from an undifferentiated state to a completely benign cellular appearance.
The neuroblastoma or child neuroblastoma is common in UK. According to the statistics it is estimated that less than 100 children are diagnosed with this disease per annum in the UK.
This dreadful disease affects children less than 5 years of age. In some children, the child neuroblastoma can occur in nerve tissue in the neck, chest, or around the spinal cord.
Neuroblastoma Symptoms
Possible signs of child neuroblastoma or child neuroblastoma symptoms include pain in the bone and a noticeable lump in the abdomen, neck, or chest. The other neuroblastoma symptoms are said to be caused due to the pressing of tumor on to the nearby tissues as it grows. This may also occur due to the spread of cancer to the bone which may include:
- Stomach will be swollen
- Breathing problems in infants
- Painless, bluish lumps under the skin in infants
- Bulging of eyes
- Dark circles around the eyes (“black eyes”).
- Weakness or paralysis (loss of ability to move a body part)
Less common signs or neuroblastoma symptoms include the following:
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness or fatigue or feeling tired
- Fever
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- A condition in which flat, pinpoint spots are formed under the skin which are caused by bleeding called Petechiae
- Uncontrolled eye movement
- Swelling of the legs, ankles, feet, or scrotum
- High blood pressure
- Severe watery diarrhea
- Jerky muscle movements
It should be kept in mind that these above mentioned so called neuroblastoma symptoms may also be caused by the various other less serious diseases or disorders. But on indication of any of these neuroblastoma symptoms it is necessary to consult a doctor immediately to avoid further complications.
