Overview
Among children who have cancer, only about seven percent have neuroblastoma. This cancer develops from the young cells that normally become nerves called neuroblasts. These immature nerve cells are found in unborn babies and normal neuroblasts become nerve cells or adrenal medulla cells (cells found in the center of the adrenal gland). When they don't mature properly the cells can become cancerous.
Because neuroblastoma is not very common, community doctors have limited knowledge of the disease. This is why almost all children with neuroblastoma in the United States receive treatment at one of the children’s cancer centers that make up the Children’s Oncology Group (COG). Children diagnosed with neuroblastoma are treated at SCCA's parent organization, Seattle Children's, a member of COG and New Approaches to Neuroblastoma Therapy (NANT).
Standard therapy for neuroblastoma is provided at Seattle Children's. If your child's health-care team determines that the best course of action is a bone-marrow transplant, your child will receive this treatment through Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.
SCCA and Children's doctors take part in national and international research studies, and often lead them, offering new treatment options that many other hospitals cannot give their patients.
In 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Children's cancer program #5 in the nation.
Neuroblastoma Facts
Learn about the risk factors and symptoms of Neuroblastoma, how it is diagnosed and how its stages are determined.Treatment Options
Regardless of the stage of your illness, the unsurpassed expertise of our physicians makes SCCA the ideal treatment center for Neuroblastoma.Our Expertise
SCCA is a comprehensive treatment center that provides the latest therapies with compassionate support. Our renowned specialists from Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, UW Medicine, and Seattle Children's are working together to improve quality of life and conquer Neuroblastoma.Talking With Your Child or Teen About Cancer
Serious illness, like cancer and all the emotions that come with it, can leave even the most skilled parents searching for words. Seattle Children's social worker Fred Wilkinson and child life specialist Katy Tenhulzen offer suggestions.Questions to Ask Your Child's Doctor
From the time your child begins receiving care through Seattle Children's and Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, you can expect the health-care team to talk you through each step of the way.What to Expect
Receiving a diagnosis for Neuroblastoma leads to many questions. SCCA and Seattle Children's physicians and staff provide compassionate care and support during your course of treatment so you will always know what to expect.Participate in a Study
As a world-class treatment center, SCCA and Seattle Children's provide patients with the best and most current therapies available. Clinical studies bring promising new treatments to patients faster. And participating in a study gives patients at least the best, current treatment, as well as the satisfaction that they are helping others with Neuroblastoma.Patient Support
Because treatment for Neuroblastoma isn't easy, special support for patients is essential. SCCA and Seattle Children's have several programs, classes, and services to assist patients and their families.Resources
The more you know about your disease, the more empowered you'll feel. This list of reputable sources about Neuroblastoma makes gathering information easy.Definitions
Common medical terms and their meanings.Teen Zone
Information for teenagers who have neuroblastoma, because the needs of teens are different than the needs of younger children or even adults.
Bone Marrow Transplant
Find out why SCCA is the best place for bone marrow transplantation.
Find out why SCCA is the best place for bone marrow transplantation.
Children and Clinical Studies
Learn why half of all American children with cancer take part in a study.
Map & Directions
Driving directions to SCCA on South Lake Union.
Driving directions to SCCA on South Lake Union.