Neuroblastoma Care

Learning that your child has been diagnosed with neuroblastoma can feel devastating. This type of cancer typically affects infants and young children, with half of all patients under two years of age. Fortunately, recent advances have significantly increased the overall survival rate, and children with neuroblastoma can often be cured if aggressively treated in time. Working with an expert care team with experience evaluating and treating neuroblastoma can give your child the best chance of success.

What Is Neuroblastoma?

Neuroblastoma is a cancer that affects the peripheral nervous system (PNS), the nerves that branch off from the brain and spinal cord. Neuroblastoma tumors develop in a part of the PNS called the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), which helps regulate our response to stress—the body's fight-or-flight response. The most common site for these tumors to develop is the adrenal glands, but they can form anywhere along the SNS, including the abdomen, chest, or neck.

Doctors look at several factors to diagnose and gauge the progression of neuroblastoma, including the size of the tumor and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. This assessment, or staging, will determine the appropriate treatment strategies.

Care at Columbia

At Columbia, our team has experience evaluating and successfully treating neuroblastoma in infants and young children. As part of NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital—the #1 children's hospital in New York City according to U.S. News & World Report—we offer access to the latest diagnostic testing and treatment options.

Care with Compassion

Our care team will tailor treatment and provide support based on your child's needs to maximize their chance for a cure and give them the best chance for a long, happy life.

Treatment Driven by the Latest Research

As part of a world-class medical center, Columbia offers the most advanced treatments and technologies, including genetic analysis of each patient's tumor to match them with the most effective strategies. We also provide access to the latest clinical trials.

Unmatched Expertise Across All Specialties

Our team includes leading experts in surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy. Some forms of neuroblastoma can change in nature—even moving from malignant to benign—so working with specialists who understand if and when to provide treatment can make an enormous difference in the success of your child's outcomes.

Family-Centered Support

We know the impact cancer can have on your child—and how difficult the experience can be for you and your family. Our team is ready to help support everyone in your family in every way. Our goal is to find a cure for your child and ensure you and your family have the help you need.

Treatments We Offer

• Chemotherapy, including high dose chemotherapy with stem cell rescue
• Immunotherapy, including monoclonal antibodies
• Investigational treatments through clinical trials
• Radiation therapy
• Surgery

Highlighted Programs

• Adolescent and Young Adult Program
• Center for Comprehensive Wellness
• Center for Survivor Wellness
• Palliative Care Center
• Precision in Pediatric Sequencing (PIPseq) program