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Symptoms

By Mayo Clinic staff

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Illustration showing location of adrenal glands Adrenal glands

Signs and symptoms of neuroblastoma vary depending on what part of the body is affected.

Neuroblastoma in the abdomen — the most common form — may cause signs and symptoms such as:

  • Abdominal pain
  • A feeling of fullness in the abdomen
  • A mass under the skin that isn't tender when touched
  • Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
  • Changes in urinary habits, such as having to go to the bathroom more often
  • Swelling in the legs

Neuroblastoma in the chest may cause signs and symptoms such as:

  • Wheezing
  • Swelling in the face
  • Changes to the eyes, including drooping eyelids and unequal pupil size

Other signs and symptoms that may indicate neuroblastoma include:

  • Lumps of tissue under the skin
  • Eyeballs that seem to protrude from the sockets (proptosis)
  • Dark circles, similar to bruises, around the eyes
  • Back pain
  • Curvature of the spine (scoliosis)
  • Fever
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Bone pain

When to see a doctor
Contact your child's doctor if your child has any signs or symptoms that worry you. Mention any changes in your child's behavior or habits.

DS00780

Aug. 14, 2008

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