Neuroblastoma is a very rare type of cancerous tumor that almost always affects children.
- Neuroblastoma develops from nerve cells in the fetus called neuroblasts. Usually, as a fetus matures and after birth, the neuroblasts develop normally. Sometimes they become cancerous, causing neuroblastoma.
- Neuroblastoma can be inherited (passed down in families).
- Neuroblastoma tumors generally develop in the adrenal glands (located on top of the kidneys), where neuroblasts are most commonly found. But neuroblastoma can also begin in or spread to other areas including the chest, the spine or spinal cord regions and the abdomen.
- Information from St. Jude Children's hospital.