What is the treatment for intermediate‑risk neuroblastoma? 

Treatment for intermediate‑risk neuroblastoma usually involves a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. The exact plan for your child will depend on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, tumour biology, where the tumour is in the body, and your child’s age and overall health. 

Because neuroblastoma behaves differently in each child, treatment pathways can look different from one family to another. Your child’s team will discuss the treatment approach that is safest and most appropriate for your child’s individual circumstances. 

Surgery to remove the primary tumour 

Where possible, children with intermediate‑risk neuroblastoma have surgery to remove the main tumour. A specialist surgeon will aim to remove as much of the tumour as safely possible, while protecting nearby organs, nerves, and blood vessels. Some tumours can be removed completely; others may only be partially removed if removing the whole tumour would cause harm. Both situations are expected within this risk group. 

Read more about surgery for neuroblastoma.

Chemotherapy 

Most children also receive chemotherapy. This helps shrink the tumour before surgery, clear any cancer cells left after surgery, and treat disease that has spread. The number of chemotherapy cycles and the medicines used can vary, depending on the child’s stage and how the cancer responds.

Read more about induction chemotherapy for neuroblastoma.

Radiotherapy (in some cases) 

A smaller number of children with intermediate‑risk disease may need radiotherapy, usually when: 

• the tumour cannot be fully removed 

• there is remaining disease after other treatments 

• the tumour location makes relapse more likely 

Your child’s doctor will explain whether radiotherapy is recommended and why. 

Read more about radiotherapy for neuroblastoma.

Why treatment varies between children 

Intermediate‑risk neuroblastoma covers a wide range of situations. This means: 

• some children need more chemotherapy than others 

• some may not need radiotherapy at all 

• some may have surgery early, while others have chemotherapy first 

Your child’s team will explain each step of the plan and what to expect. 

How difficult is treatment? 

Most children cope well with treatment for intermediate‑risk disease, but side effects do occur. The team will monitor your child closely, manage symptoms, and support your family throughout treatment. If you ever have concerns, speak to your child’s treatment team. 

Read more about the side effects of neuroblastoma treatment.