What are the survival rates for relapsed neuroblastoma?

Relapsed neuroblastoma has a lower long‑term survival rate than other risk-groups. Published estimates suggest that the 5-year survival rate for relapsed neuroblastoma is around 8 in 100.

Relapse happens when neuroblastoma comes back after previous treatment, and it can be more difficult to treat because the disease may behave differently the second time. 

Why survival rates are lower after relapse 

Relapse can occur months or years after treatment. When neuroblastoma returns, it often behaves more aggressively and may respond less well to therapies that were used the first time. Factors that can influence prognosis include: 

• How long it has been since treatment finished
• Where the cancer has returned (relapse in one place vs. relapse that has spread throughout the body) 
  
• Tumour biology and genetic features 
• How well the tumour responded to previous treatment 
• What treatment options are available at relapse, including clinical trials 

Learn more about relapsed neuroblastoma. 

Understanding survival statistics 

It is important to remember: 

• Statistics describe groups, not individuals - they cannot predict exactly how any one child will respond
• Published figures often reflect treatment given over many years and may not include more recent or emerging therapies 
• Care plans for relapsed neuroblastoma are highly individual and tailored to each child’s situation

Reference: Basta, N. O., Halliday, G. C., Makin, G., Birch, J., Feltbower, R., Bown, N., … McNally, R. J. Q. (2016). Factors associated with recurrence and survival length following relapse in patients with neuroblastoma. British Journal of Cancer, 115(9), 1048–1057. https://doi.org/10.1038/bjc.2016.302