Causes and Risk Factors for Neuroblastoma

Overview

Neuroblastoma is a type of pediatric cancer that develops in immature nerve cells called neuroblasts. Neuroblastoma occurs when a genetic mutation causes developing nerve cells to become cancerous and grow out of control and form tumors. This may occur either during fetal development or after birth. It usually develops before age 5 and rarely occurs in children over age 10. The exact cause of neuroblastoma (the reason the genetic mutation happens) is unknown.

However, there are a few factors that can contribute to its development.

Non-modifiable Risk Factors (Risk Factors You Can't Change)

Non-modifiable risk factors for neuroblastoma include:

Age: Neuroblastoma is most commonly diagnosed in children under the age of 5. The risk of developing neuroblastoma decreases significantly after the age of 5. Neuroblastoma rarely occurs in children over age 10.
Genetics: Certain genetic conditions or birth defects, such as neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), Costello syndrome, Noonan syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, Pheochromocytoma/Paraganglioma syndromes, and ROHHAD syndromes, increase the risk of developing neuroblastoma.
Family history: Having a strong family history of neuroblastoma may also increase the risk. There are rare instances where an inherited genetic change in a specific gene, such as the ALK gene or PHOX2B gene, can lead to the development of neuroblastoma. If there are close relatives who have been diagnosed with neuroblastoma, it's important to discuss this with a healthcare professional who may recommend genetic counseling and testing to determine if there is an inherited form of neuroblastoma in the family.
Race or Ethnicity: Neuroblastoma is more common in children of Black, Indigenous, and Asian descent compared to white children. However, it can occur in individuals of any race or ethnicity.

Modifiable Risk Factors (Factors You May Be Able to Change)

There are no known modifiable risk factors for neuroblastoma.

Reducing Risks

It currently isn’t possible to prevent or decrease the risk of neuroblastoma. People with a family history of neuroblastoma may wish to consult their healthcare professional about genetic counseling and testing to determine if they have a gene marker indicating a potential inheritable form for neuroblastoma. It should be noted that most cases of neuroblastoma are not inherited.