Diagnostic problems in pediatrics on the example of a clinical case of neuroblastoma

Abstract

Neuroblastoma (NB) is a malignant extracranial solid tumor of childhood. The peak incidence occurs in the first year of life. In 50% of cases, the disease already has signs of metastasis at the time of diagnosis. The clinical picture in neuroblastoma is varied; the symptoms are not specific and depend on the localization. The diagnosis is confirmed by histological examination of the biopsy of the primary tumor and metastasis. A specific method for the topical diagnosis of neuroblastoma is 123I-labeled metaiodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy, which makes it possible to detect the primary tumor, the presence of regional and distant metastases. Combinations of high-dose chemotherapy and transplantation of autologous stem cells and differentiating agents, as well as immunotherapy with anti-GD2 monoclonal antibodies, can increase the life expectancy of patients.