Last Updated on December 3, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir

Neuroblastoma is a serious cancer that mainly hits kids. New studies show how important it is to catch it early. Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys say knowing why cancer comes back is key to better care mibg scan neuroblastoma.

Diagnosing neuroblastoma needs a mix of doctor checks, lab tests, and scans. We look into if blood tests can spot this disease. We also talk about the different ways doctors find out if someone has neuroblastoma.

Key Takeaways

• Blood tests play a big part in finding neuroblastoma.
• Spotting it early is essential for good treatment.
• There are many tests to find neuroblastoma.
• Scans help see how far the disease has spread.
• Using all these tests together helps patients more.

Understanding Neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma is a cancer that starts in immature nerve cells. These cells can grow into nerve or adrenal gland tissue. It’s most common in kids under five, making it a big worry in pediatric oncology.

What is Neuroblastoma?

Neuroblastoma comes from the neural crest, a group of cells that turn into nerve cells and other tissues in the womb. We don’t always know why it happens, but it’s thought to be caused by genetic changes early in fetal development.

As a childhood cancer, neuroblastoma is tough to diagnose and treat. Its aggressive nature means finding it early is key to managing it well.

Prevalence and Risk Factors

Neuroblastoma is the most common solid tumor outside the brain in kids, making up about 6% of all childhood cancers. It happens in about 1 in 7,000 births, according to some studies.

Some risk factors include age, with most cases in kids under five. Genetics also play a big role, with some cases linked to inherited mutations.

Common Locations of Neuroblastoma Tumors

Neuroblastoma tumors can grow in different parts of the body. The most common place is the adrenal glands, making up about 40% of cases.

The tumor’s location affects symptoms and how well a child might do. For example, tumors in the neck or chest can press on important structures, causing specific symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Neuroblastoma Cancer

It’s key to spot the signs of neuroblastoma early. This helps in treating this cancer in kids better. The symptoms vary based on where the tumor is, how big it is, and if it has spread.

Early Warning Signs

Detecting neuroblastoma at an early stage can be challenging due to the ambiguity of its initial symptoms. Look out for:

• A lump or swelling in the neck, chest, or abdomen
• Protruding eyes or dark circles around the eyes
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits
• Weakness or paralysis of an arm or leg

These signs can mean many things, so seeing a doctor is important.

Advanced Disease Symptoms

When neuroblastoma gets worse, symptoms get more serious. Look out for:

• Persistent bone pain
• Fever without an apparent cause
• Weight loss or loss of appetite
• Fatigue or general feeling of being unwell

Neuroblastoma can also cause paraneoplastic syndromes. These are rare and can lead to:

Paraneoplastic Syndromes

Paraneoplastic syndromes from neuroblastoma can include:

• Cerbellar ataxia, which makes coordination and balance hard
• Opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome, with muscle jerks and wild eye movements

Spotting these symptoms is key to diagnosing neuroblastoma. A full medical check-up is needed if you notice anything odd.

The Diagnostic Journey for Neuroblastoma

Diagnosing neuroblastoma involves many tests and exams. It needs a team of experts from different fields. This ensures a thorough check-up.

Initial Assessment and Physical Examination

The first step is an initial check-up and physical exam. Doctors collect important info about the patient’s health. They look for signs that might show neuroblastoma.

Knowing the patient’s medical history is key. It helps doctors understand the patient’s health better. The physical exam is also important. It lets doctors find any unusual lumps or swellings.

The Importance of Early Detection

Finding neuroblastoma early is very important. Early detection can greatly improve treatment results and survival chances for kids.

It’s vital to know the early signs of neuroblastoma. Look out for lumps or swellings in the abdomen, neck, or chest. Also, watch for eye swelling, proptosis, or changes in bowel or bladder habits. Quick medical help is needed if these symptoms appear.

Multidisciplinary Approach to Diagnosis

Diagnosing neuroblastoma needs a team effort. Doctors from different areas, like pediatric oncology and radiology, work together. They use tests and imaging to confirm the diagnosis and plan treatment.

We use various tests and imaging to find out if someone has neuroblastoma. This detailed approach helps create a treatment plan that fits each patient’s needs.

Blood Tests for Neuroblastoma Detection

Blood tests are key in finding neuroblastoma, a cancer that mainly hits kids. They help spot specific signs and changes linked to the disease. This helps doctors diagnose and keep track of the condition.

Tumor Markers in Blood

Blood tests are used to find tumor markers in neuroblastoma. Tumor markers are things made by cancer cells or in response to them. For neuroblastoma, certain markers in the blood show the disease is present.

Specifically, high levels of catecholamine metabolites, like vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) and homovanillic acid (HVA), are linked to neuroblastoma. These can be found in blood or urine.

Catecholamine Metabolites (VMA and HVA)

VMA and HVA come from breaking down catecholamines, hormones from the adrenal glands. Neuroblastoma cells make too much of these hormones. This leads to high VMA and HVA levels in blood or urine.

Testing VMA and HVA levels is a key way to diagnose neuroblastoma. Many studies show that most patients with neuroblastoma have high levels of these metabolites.

Metabolite	Normal Level	Elevated Level in Neuroblastoma
VMA	< 10 mg/24 hours	> 20 mg/24 hours
HVA	< 15 mg/24 hours	> 30 mg/24 hours

Complete Blood Count Abnormalities

A complete blood count (CBC) also helps in diagnosing neuroblastoma. It shows if the bone marrow is affected, through signs like anemia or low platelets.

A CBC also checks the patient’s overall health. It can spot any side effects from treatment.

Limitations of Blood Testing

Even though blood tests are important, they have their limits. Not all neuroblastoma patients will have high tumor markers. Some might have normal results even with the disease.

So, blood tests need to be looked at with other tests, like imaging and biopsies. A full diagnostic approach is needed for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Neuroblastoma Ultrasound: Role and Limitations

Ultrasound is key in checking for neuroblastoma, mainly in kids. It’s safe because it doesn’t use harmful radiation. We use it first to see the tumor and check for any problems.

How Ultrasound Identifies Neuroblastoma

Ultrasound spots neuroblastoma by finding a mass in places like the adrenal gland or chest. The tumor looks different on the screen because of its mixed look. It helps us guide biopsies and see how the tumor is positioned.

Key Features of Neuroblastoma on Ultrasound:

• Tumor location and size
• Echogenicity and heterogeneity
• Relationship to surrounding vessels and organs
• Potential for vascular invasion

Benefits of Ultrasound in Pediatric Patients

Ultrasound is great for kids because it’s safe. It doesn’t use harmful radiation. It’s also fast and doesn’t need sedation, making it less scary for them.

“Ultrasound is a valuable tool in pediatric oncology, providing a safe and effective way to start checking and watching neuroblastoma.”

NCI Guidelines

When Ultrasound Is Not Enough

Even though ultrasound is helpful at first, it has its limits. It might not show how far the disease has spread or find tiny spots of cancer. To get a full picture, we often need to use other tests like CT, MRI, or MIBG scans.

Imaging Modality	Strengths	Limitations
Ultrasound	Non-invasive, no radiation, quick	Limited depth penetration, operator-dependent
CT Scan	High resolution, fast	Radiation exposure, contrast required
MRI	No radiation, excellent soft tissue detail	Long examination time, may require sedation

In summary, ultrasound is a key tool for starting to check for neuroblastoma, mainly in kids. It’s not perfect, but its benefits make it a must-have in finding and treating this disease.

Advanced Imaging Techniques for Neuroblastoma

Diagnosing and staging neuroblastoma rely on advanced imaging. These techniques give vital info on the tumor’s size and spread. This info is key for choosing the right treatment.

CT Scans and MRI

Computed Tomography (CT) scans and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are key for diagnosing neuroblastoma. CT scans show detailed cross-sections, helping spot the tumor’s size and its position. MRI offers great contrast for soft tissues, helping see how far the tumor has spread.

PET Scans

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans are also vital. They use a radioactive tracer that lights up tumors. This helps find the main tumor, check its activity, and spot any spread.

Bone Scans

Bone scans help find bone metastases, common in advanced neuroblastoma. They involve a radioactive tracer that shows up in bone activity. This helps spot metastasis.

Comparison of Imaging Modalities

Each imaging method has its own strengths and weaknesses. The right choice depends on the question being asked. Here’s a look at the imaging options:

Imaging Modality	Strengths	Limitations
CT Scans	Quick, detailed cross-sectional images	Radiation exposure, less soft-tissue contrast
MRI	Excellent soft-tissue contrast, no radiation Pagebreaks	Longer examination time, may require sedation
PET Scans	Assesses metabolic activity, detects metastases	Requires radioactive tracer, may not be as widely available
Bone Scans	Detects bone metastases	May not detect all types of bone involvement

MIBG Scan Neuroblastoma: The Gold Standard

The MIBG scan has changed how we diagnose neuroblastoma. It’s a key tool in finding and tracking this cancer. It helps doctors plan the best treatment.

What is an MIBG Scan?

An MIBG scan uses a tiny bit of radioactive material. It helps find and watch certain cancers, like neuroblastoma. The MIBG goes into the cancer cells, making them visible.

Key aspects of MIBG scans include:

• High sensitivity for detecting neuroblastoma cells
• Ability to assess the extent of disease spread
• Useful for monitoring response to treatment

How MIBG Specifically Targets Neuroblastoma Cells

MIBG looks like certain neurotransmitters. This lets it get into neuroblastoma cells. So, MIBG scans can show where the tumors are and if they’ve spread.

Sensitivity and Specificity Rates

MIBG scans are very good at finding neuroblastoma. They are accurate in diagnosing this cancer. This makes them a valuable tool for doctors.

The advantages of MIBG scans include:

1. High diagnostic accuracy
2. Ability to detect disease spread
3. Useful for assessing treatment response

MIBG scans are essential for managing neuroblastoma. They help doctors find and track this complex disease effectively.

Nuclear Medicine Imaging and Radioactive Tracing

Pediatric oncology has seen big improvements thanks to nuclear medicine imaging, like in neuroblastoma diagnosis. These methods, using radioactive tracers, are key in finding and tracking cancer in kids.

Principles of Nuclear Medicine in Pediatric Oncology

Nuclear medicine uses tiny amounts of radioactive materials to help diagnose and treat diseases. This includes many cancers, heart issues, and more. In kids with cancer, it helps us see and plan treatment for neuroblastoma.

First, a radioactive tracer is given to the body. It’s then picked up by tissues. Cameras detect the radiation, making images that show the disease’s details.

How Radioactive Tracers Work

Radioactive tracers target specific cells or tissues. For neuroblastoma, MIBG (Metaiodobenzylguanidine) is used. It’s taken up by neuroblastoma cells, helping us see the tumor and its spread.

• MIBG is taken up by neuroblastoma cells because it’s like norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter.
• The tracer emits gamma radiation, which is detected by a gamma camera.
• The images show the tumor’s location, size, and how active it is.

Safety Considerations in Children

Nuclear medicine imaging is safe but we must think about the risks, mainly in kids. The radiation dose is low and managed to keep the child safe.

Important safety steps include:

1. Using the least amount of radioactive tracer needed.
2. Keeping the child well-hydrated to help get rid of the tracer.
3. Watching for any side effects or allergic reactions.

By weighing the benefits and risks, we can use nuclear medicine to help diagnose and treat neuroblastoma in kids.

MIBG Scan Procedure: What to Expect

The MIBG scan is a key tool for finding neuroblastoma. Knowing what to expect can help patients and their families. It uses a small amount of radioactive material to see the tumor.

Preparation for the Scan

Getting ready for an MIBG scan takes a few steps. You might need to stop some medicines that could mess up the scan. It’s important to follow your doctor’s advice on medicines. You might also need to protect your thyroid to avoid absorbing too much radioactive iodine.

Medical guidelines say to avoid certain foods and medicines before the scan. This helps make sure the scan works well.

During the Procedure

During the scan, you’ll get a small dose of radioactive MIBG. You’ll wait a few hours for it to reach the tumor. The scan uses a gamma camera to find the MIBG.

Post-Scan Care

After the scan, you’ll be watched for a bit. Drinking lots of water helps get rid of the radioactive stuff. Make sure to follow any care instructions from your healthcare team.

MIBG Scan Cost and Insurance Considerations

The cost of an MIBG scan can change based on where you are and who does it. It’s key to talk to your insurance about what they cover. Many plans help pay for MIBG scans for neuroblastoma.

In short, while the MIBG scan might seem complicated, knowing what to expect can make it easier. By listening to your healthcare team and asking questions, you can have a better experience.

Interpreting MIBG Scan Results

Understanding MIBG scan results is key to knowing how far neuroblastoma has spread and how well it’s responding to treatment. These scans give us important info on the disease’s spread and how it reacts to therapy. This helps doctors make better decisions.

Understanding Uptake Patterns

The way MIBG is taken up is very important when looking at scan results. MIBG uptake patterns show where neuroblastoma is and how much. High uptake means active cancer cells, while low uptake might mean treatment is working. We look at these patterns to see how the disease is changing and adjust treatment plans.

Scoring Systems for MIBG Scans

To make MIBG scan results easier to understand, different scoring systems have been created. These systems help measure how much disease is present and track changes. Using the same scoring method helps doctors better see how well treatment is working and how the disease is progressing.

False Positives and False Negatives

Even though MIBG scans are very good at finding neuroblastoma, they can sometimes give false positives and false negatives. False positives happen when other conditions show up as MIBG uptake. False negatives can occur when tumor cells don’t take up MIBG as expected. Knowing about these issues helps us avoid misdiagnosis.

By combining MIBG scan results with other tests and clinical checks, we get a full picture of the disease. This helps us create effective treatment plans.

Tissue Biopsy: The Definitive Diagnosis

A tissue biopsy is the best way to diagnose neuroblastoma. It lets doctors see the tumor up close. They take a sample of the tumor tissue for a detailed look.

Types of Biopsies for Neuroblastoma

There are different biopsies for neuroblastoma, each with its own use. Needle biopsy uses a thin needle to get a tissue sample. Incisional biopsy involves surgically taking a part of the tumor. The choice depends on the tumor’s location and the patient’s health.

Histopathological Examination

After getting a tissue sample, it’s examined under a microscope. This is called histopathological examination. It helps find neuroblastoma cells and understand the tumor’s behavior. This info helps decide the best treatment.

Genetic and Molecular Testing

The biopsy tissue also goes through genetic and molecular testing. These tests look for genetic changes in the tumor cells. For neuroblastoma, some genetic changes, like MYCN amplification, affect how the disease will progress. These tests help plan treatment based on the patient’s specific situation.

By combining these tests, doctors get a full picture of the neuroblastoma. This helps them create a treatment plan that fits the patient’s needs.

From Diagnosis to Treatment Planning

The journey from diagnosis to treatment planning for neuroblastoma is complex. It involves several key steps, including staging and risk stratification. These steps are vital for understanding the prognosis and guiding treatment.

International Neuroblastoma Staging System

The International Neuroblastoma Staging System (INSS) is a key tool for staging neuroblastoma. It looks at the tumor’s location, spread to lymph nodes, and if it has spread to other parts of the body.

INSS Stages:

• Stage 1: Localized tumor with complete gross excision
• Stage 2: Localized tumor with incomplete gross excision
• Stage 3: Tumor extending in continuity beyond the midline
• Stage 4: Dissemination of tumor to distant lymph nodes, bone, liver, skin, or other organs
• Stage 4S: Localized primary tumor with dissemination limited to skin, liver, or bone marrow in infants

Risk Group Assignment

Risk group assignment is a critical part of treatment planning. It considers the INSS stage, patient’s age, tumor histology, and genetic factors like MYCN amplification. Patients are sorted into low-risk, intermediate-risk, or high-risk groups.

Risk Group	Characteristics	Treatment Approach
Low-Risk	Favorable histology, no MYCN amplification	Surgery, observation
Intermediate-Risk	Some adverse features, possible MYCN amplification	Combination chemotherapy, surgery
High-Risk	Advanced stage, MYCN amplification, unfavorable histology	Intensive chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy

How MIBG Scans Guide Therapy Decisions

MIBG scans are essential in guiding therapy decisions for neuroblastoma patients. They provide detailed information on the disease’s extent. This helps in assessing treatment response and detecting any remaining or recurring disease.

Therapeutic MIBG for Treatment

Therapeutic MIBG is a targeted therapy for high-risk neuroblastoma. It uses MIBG labeled with radioactive iodine (I-131) to target and destroy neuroblastoma cells.

Therapeutic MIBG has shown promise in improving outcomes for patients with refractory or relapsed neuroblastoma. It is often used alongside other treatments like chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation.

Conclusion: The Comprehensive Approach to Neuroblastoma Diagnosis

Diagnosing neuroblastoma needs a mix of clinical checks, lab tests, and high-tech scans. We’ve looked at tools like blood tests, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, and MIBG scans. A detailed approach is key to accurately stage the disease and choose the right treatment.

The International Neuroblastoma Staging System and risk groups help decide treatment. We use imaging and lab tests together to plan treatment. This way, we can better care for patients and tailor treatment to each one.

Understanding neuroblastoma diagnosis and treatment is vital for doctors and families. We must keep focusing on a team effort to manage neuroblastoma. This ensures patients get the top care they need.

FAQ

Reference

• Moss, T. J., Sanders, D. G. (1990). Detection of neuroblastoma cells in blood. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 8(4), 736-740. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2179482/