1. Identifying the Physical Symptoms of Ganglioneuroblastoma
Ganglioneuroblastoma is often identified when a parent or child recognizes a hard mass in the child's abdomen, though the cancerous tumors are capable of growing elsewhere in the body. When they are located on the face or head, there will usually be noticeable swelling or bruising around the eyes or uncontrollable eye movements. Those located on the kidneys or bladder may cause urination problems. Other physical symptoms of ganglioneuroblastoma include fever, diarrhea, weakness, weight loss, high blood pressure and increased heart rate.
2. Diagnostic Tests for Ganglioneuroblastoma
Once the child's physical symptoms have been evaluated, a physician will want to take a closer look at the affected area with a CT scan or an MRI. A computerized tomography (CT) scan creates cross-sectional images of the body to give doctors a detailed account of what is occurring in the layers of muscles, bones or fat. The machine uses a combination of computer technology and x-rays to produce the images, which appear as horizontal and vertical "slices" of the body parts being scanned. As its name suggests, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is a test that uses magnetic and radio frequencies to create computer-generated images of the internal organs and other bodily structures. Through these two diagnostic tests, the precise location and size of the tumor can be determined. Other factors, such as whether the mass is benign or malignant, determine additional testing needs.
3. Determining the Severity of the Tumor With a Biopsy
Once a tumor has been identified, a biopsy will frequently be done to determine the severity of the condition. In a bone marrow biopsy, the doctor takes a small amount of bone marrow fluid and tissue to examine them for abnormal blood cells. Clues like the child's total blood cell count and the maturity of the blood cells will help the doctor in making a diagnosis. A biopsy of the tumor may also be done by taking a sample of the mass for further testing.
4. Achieving a Diagnosis With a Urine or Blood Test
If ganglioneuroblastoma is suspected, a simple urine or blood test can help physicians achieve a definitive diagnosis. Children with ganglioneuroblastoma have higher levels of VMA and HVA, two chemicals that are produced by the tumor.
