Neuroblastoma

Is a malignant tumour that develops from cells of the sympathetic nervous system, which regulates involuntary body functions such as breathing and blood circulation. This tumour mainly affects children under the age of 5, but can also occur in adults.

Neuroblastoma can develop in different parts of the body, but is most commonly found in the adrenal glands, located above the kidneys. Other common sites include the neck, chest, abdomen and pelvis.

Neuroblastoma is classified according to its stage, which reflects the size of the tumour, its extension into surrounding tissues and its spread to other parts of the body. The diagnosis of neuroblastoma is based on imaging examinations, such as X-rays, scans, MRI or PET scans, as well as laboratory tests to identify tumour markers.

Biomarkers for neuroblastoma are molecules that can be detected in blood or tumour tissue and can help diagnose and predict disease progression. Here are some examples of biomarkers for neuroblastoma:

1. N-myc: this is an oncogene that is often amplified in aggressive neuroblastoma. Detection of this amplification is important for determining the prognosis of the disease and for guiding the choice of treatment.

2.Chromogranin A: this is a protein produced by neuroendocrine cells, which is often elevated in the blood of patients with neuroblastoma. Measuring this protein can help monitor disease progression and treatment efficacy.

3. DOPA decarboxylase: this enzyme is involved in the synthesis of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Neuroblastomas can produce large quantities of this enzyme, which can be detected in the blood or tumour tissue.

4. Tyrosine hydroxylase: this enzyme is also involved in the synthesis of dopamine and is often present in neuroblastomas.

5. Synaptophysin: this protein is present in neuroendocrine cells and can be detected in neuroblastoma tumour tissue.