What is a Ganglioneuroblastoma?
Ganglioneuroblastoma is an intermediate tumor that arises from nerve tissues. An intermediate tumor is one that is between benign (slow-growing and unlikely to spread) and malignant (fast-growing, aggressive, and likely to spread).
Is Ganglioneuroblastoma curable?
These tumors progress slowly and are associated with cure rates of 25–50%. Low-risk tumors: Small tumors that can be treated with surgery alone (Stage 1 or 2°). These tumors are associated with cure rates exceeding 90%.
Is Ganglioneuroblastoma hereditary?
However, in 1–2% of cases, an increased chance of developing neuroblastoma can be inherited from a parent. This is called hereditary neuroblastoma. Children with hereditary neuroblastoma are more likely to have a higher number of tumors and to be diagnosed at a younger age than people with sporadic neuroblastoma.
How is neuroblastoma diagnosed early?
Some neuroblastomas can be found early, before they start to cause any signs or symptoms. For example, a small number of neuroblastomas are found before birth during an ultrasound, a test that uses sound waves to create an image of the internal organs of a fetus.
What causes Ganglioneuroblastoma?
In general, cancer develops due to a genetic mutation that allows cells to multiply out of control. However, the specific causes of ganglioneuroblastomas are unknown.
Are Ganglioneuroma malignant?
Most ganglioneuromas are noncancerous. The expected outcome is usually good. A ganglioneuroma may become cancerous and spread to other areas.
How do you treat Ganglioneuroblastoma?
Treatment Options for a Ganglioneuroblastoma Treatment usually begins with surgical removal of the tumor. Chemotherapy and radiation are then used to prevent regrowth. If a tumor contains only benign cells, surgery is most likely the only treatment needed.
What causes Ganglioneuroma?
Ganglioneuromas usually occur in people over 10 years of age. They grow slowly, and may release certain chemicals or hormones. There are no known risk factors. However, the tumors may be associated with some genetic problems, such as neurofibromatosis type 1.
Can Ganglioneuroma come back?
Most ganglioneuromas are noncancerous. The expected outcome is usually good. A ganglioneuroma may become cancerous and spread to other areas. It may also come back after it is removed.