Tests for neuroblastoma

A number of tests may be carried out if it's thought your child could have neuroblastoma.

These tests may include:

  • a urine test to check for certain chemicalsproduced by neuroblastoma cellsthat are found in urine
  • scans such as ultrasound scans , computerised tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of various parts of the body to look at these areasin detail
  • an mIBG scan this involves the injection of a substancetaken up by neuroblastoma cells
  • a biopsy the removal of a sample of cells from the tumour tissue for examination under a microscope so the type of cancer can be identified; thesample is usually removed under general anaesthetic using a special needle
  • bone marrow biopsies to see if there are cancer cells in the bone marrow

Once these tests have been completed, it will usually be possible to confirm if the diagnosis is neuroblastoma and determine what stage it is.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018