Neuroblastoma
last authored: Oct 2009, Dave LaPierre
Introduction
Neuroblastoma is the most common cancer arising within the first year of life. It arises from neural progenitor cells, in the adrenal medulla in alomst half of cases and in the sympathetic chain otherwise. These tumours can occur in the retroperitoneum, posterior mediastium, pelvis, or neck.
The Case of...
a simple case introducing clincial presentation and calling for a differential diagnosis. To get students thinking.
Causes and Risk Factors
Pathophysiology
N-myc gene amlpification is often seen.
Signs and Symptoms
- history
- physical exam
History
Signs and symptoms depend on location of tumour. A mass is the most common feature.
Thoracic: dyspnea
- Horner's syndrome
bone metastasis: bone pain, limp
periorbital ecchymosis
- abdominal pain
- vomiting
- fever
- anorexia and weight loss
Physical Exam
Abdominal mass
blueberry muffin skin
hepatomegaly
skin nodules
hypertension, palpitations, sweating from paraneoplastic catecholamine release
diarrhea
FTT
Investigations
- lab investigations
- diagnostic imaging
Lab Investigations
Diagnostic Imaging
Differential Diagnosis
Treatments
Consequences and Course
Resources and References
Topic Development
authors:
reviewers:
 |