Neuroblastoma is a disease in which cancer cells form in the nervous tissue. The cancerous tumors frequently originate in the adrenal glands, but also develop in the neck, chest or spinal cord. The exact cause of neurobastoma is unknown, but genetics may play a role. The disease is known to strike children under the age of five, most commonly infants. Some experts believe the tumors form from tissues that typically disappear during fetal development. Usually neuroblastoma goes unnoticed until symptoms manifest, at which point, the cancer has already metastasized or spread.
Instructions
1. Know the symptoms of neuroblastoma. The most telling symptom may be a lump in the abdomen, neck or chest. Understand this is attributed to a tumor forming in the surrounding tissue or cancer spreading to the bone. Look for the stomach to appear swollen as a tumor in the abdomen may cause constipation. Likewise a tumor in the chest may hinder breathing.
2. Check for problems with the eyes, especially if they appear to bulge. Note any dark circles under the eyes or noticeably jerky eye movements as these are often symptoms of neuroblastoma.
3. Watch for blue-toned lumps under the skin. Know the lumps are painless, but are considered a sign of the disease. Be aware that the skin may bruise easily. Flat spots, about the size of a pinpoint, appear as a result of bleeding.
4. Expect fatigue and weakness, even paralysis. Anticipate the child will have bone pain, and possibly limp, in response to bone lesions in the legs and hips. Be aware legs, ankles and feet may swell.
5. Remember that other signs of neuroblastoma include fever, diarrhea and jerky muscle movements.
6. Call your doctor immediately, if you spot any of the signs of neuroblastoma. Expect your physician to administer tests and procedures: urine and blood tests, x-ray, biopsy, ultrasound or CT scan.
7. Take comfort in knowing that neuroblastoma can disappear without any treatment.
Tags: neck chest, signs neuroblastoma, symptoms neuroblastoma