Neuroblastoma is a pediatric cancer that affects the nervous system. Various tests determine the stage of the cancer, which is a primary factor in determining prognosis. It is important to remember that no one can predict with certainty how long someone will survive a particular cancer.
Considerations for Survival Statistics
Survival statistics are based on the number of children in a particular group still alive after 5 years. The American Cancer Society mentions recent advances in treating neuroblastoma might indicate a more favorable outcome for recently diagnosed children.
Age and Survival
Generally, children younger than one have the best prognosis. The earlier it is diagnosed, the better the chance of a cure.
Prognosis for Low-Risk Children
The 5-year survival rate is 90 to 95 percent. Low risk children include any child in stage 1 cancer; children under 1 who have stage 2A or 2B; children over 1 who have 2A or 2B and do not have extra copies of the MYCN gene (extra copies are indicated in rapid cancer cell growth); or children who have copies of the gene but have lots of normal cells in their tumor (favorable histology); and children under 1 who have stage 4S.
Prognosis for Intermediate-Risk Children
The five-year survival rate is 80 to 90 percent. Intermediate-risk children include stage 3 children under 1 with no extra MYCN copies; stage 3 children older than 1; children with no excess MYCN genes and favorable histology; stage 4 children under 18 months with no extra MYCN copies; and children with stage 4S who do not have extra MYCN copies and have a normal number of chromosomes.
Prognosis for High-Risk Children
The five-year survival rate is 20 to 40 percent. High-risk children include stage 2A and 2B children over 1 who have extra MYCN genes and unfavorable histology; stage 3 children with extra MYCN; stage 3 children with no extra MYCN but unfavorable histology; stage 4 children under 18 months with extra MYCN; any child over 18 months with stage 4; and children with stage 4S under 1 with extra MYCN copies.
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