Neuroblastoma

Definition

Neuroblastoma is a type of cancer that develops from immature nerve cells, called neuroblasts, primarily affecting children. It usually arises in the adrenal glands, but can also occur in nerve tissues along the spine, chest, abdomen, or pelvis. This cancer is closely associated with mutations in proto-oncogenes and the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes, making it a critical area of study when looking at how these genetic factors contribute to tumor development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Neuroblastoma is the most common cancer in infants and accounts for about 7-10% of all childhood cancers.
2. Genetic factors such as mutations in the MYCN oncogene are significant contributors to the aggressiveness of neuroblastoma.
3. Children with neuroblastoma may present symptoms like abdominal pain, swollen abdomen, or signs of anemia due to the tumor's location and growth.
4. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, with the approach depending on the stage and risk factors associated with the disease.
5. The prognosis for neuroblastoma varies widely; some cases can spontaneously regress, while others can be highly aggressive and resistant to treatment.

Review Questions

• How do mutations in proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes play a role in the development of neuroblastoma?
  • Mutations in proto-oncogenes can lead to their activation as oncogenes, promoting uncontrolled cell growth and division. In contrast, tumor suppressor genes typically function to inhibit cell proliferation and promote apoptosis. When these genes are mutated or inactivated, it removes critical checkpoints that would normally prevent tumor development. Together, these genetic alterations create an environment conducive to the formation and progression of neuroblastoma.
• Discuss the significance of early diagnosis in improving outcomes for children diagnosed with neuroblastoma.
  • Early diagnosis of neuroblastoma is crucial because it allows for timely intervention which significantly impacts treatment effectiveness and prognosis. The disease can progress rapidly, so identifying it at an early stage increases the chances of successful surgical removal and decreases the risk of metastasis. Additionally, early detection often allows for less aggressive treatment protocols, leading to better overall outcomes for affected children.
• Evaluate the implications of recent advancements in targeted therapies for treating neuroblastoma and their impact on future treatment strategies.
  • Recent advancements in targeted therapies have revolutionized the treatment landscape for neuroblastoma by allowing for more personalized approaches based on genetic profiling of tumors. These therapies aim at specific molecular targets associated with cancer cell growth and survival, potentially improving efficacy while minimizing side effects. As research continues to uncover more about the genetic underpinnings of neuroblastoma, future strategies may increasingly focus on combining targeted therapies with traditional treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy to enhance outcomes for patients.

Related terms

Proto-oncogenes: Genes that normally help cells grow; when mutated, they can become oncogenes that drive cancer progression.

Tumor Suppressor Genes: Genes that protect cells from becoming cancerous; mutations can lead to loss of function and contribute to tumor formation.

Apoptosis: The process of programmed cell death that is often disrupted in cancer cells, allowing them to survive and proliferate uncontrollably.