Childen's Hospital Boston 300 Longwood Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 355-6000
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Clinical Services (Neuroblastoma):
Diagnosis
Diagnosing neuroblastoma requires a complete medical history and physical examination. Some of the diagnostic procedures we will perform include:
  • Blood tests - including a complete blood count, blood chemistries, kidney and liver function tests.

  • Urine test to measure chemicals (called HVA and VMA) that are made by neuroblastoma cells.

  • A combination of imaging studies to evaluate the size and location of the primary tumor and determine extent/location of any metastases.

    Possible imaging studies that will be done include:

    • Computerized tomography scan (also called CT or CAT scan) - an imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images of the body. A CT scan shows us detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general X-rays.

    • Magnetic resonance imaging (also called MRI) scan - a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.

    • Bone scan - nuclear medicine study where pictures are taken of the bone after a dye has been injected into a vein that is absorbed by bone tissue. This test is used to detect spread of neuroblastoma to the bones.

    • MIBG scan - MIBG is a chemical that is absorbed by most neuroblastoma cells. This is a nuclear medicine study where pictures are taken after MIBG is injected into a vein. This test is used to detect spread of neuroblastoma to the bones and other tissues and is more sensitive than a bone scan.

  • Bone marrow biopsy and/or aspiration - a procedure that involves taking a small amount of bone marrow fluid and tissue, usually from the hip bones, to determine whether neuroblastoma cells have spread to the bone marrow.

  • Biopsy - a sample taken of the primary tumor and/or metastatic lesions to confirm the diagnosis of neuroblastoma and to do special studies on the tumor described below.
Dana-Farber/Children's Hospital Cancer Care
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