Most common extracranial solid tumor diagnosed in infancy

Usually arises from the adrenal gland but may also arise at multiple sites, usually within the abdomen

Usually metastasizes before it’s diagnosed

Highly malignant

Poor prognosis (less than 50% chance of survival) for the child older than age 1; prognosis approaches 75% chance of survival for children diagnosed younger than age 1

If tumor occurs in the abdomen, resembles Wilms’ tumor

Tumors originate from embryonic cells in the neural crest, giving rise to the adrenal medulla and the sympathetic nervous system.

Tumors occur most commonly in the abdomen near the adrenal gland or spinal ganglia.

The most common sites of metastasis are the bone marrow, liver, and subcutaneous tissue.

Stages