What does it mean when my child has relapsed neuroblastoma? 

Relapsed disease means that the neuroblastoma, which had previously responded well to treatment, has come back during or after treatment. For children with high-risk neuroblastoma, this happens in around 40–50% of cases.

How is relapse found?

Symptoms can vary depending on where the cancer has returned and how far it has spread. Sometimes, a relapse is found during routine scans before any symptoms appear.

Common signs might include pain, tiredness, changes in appetite, or new lumps or swellings, but every child is different.

What does relapse mean for treatment?

Relapsed neuroblastoma can be more difficult to treat, but there are often options available. These may include further chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, immunotherapy or clinical trials of new treatments.

The choice of treatment depends on many factors, including your child’s previous treatments, overall health, and where the cancer has returned.

Hearing that your child’s cancer has come back can be overwhelming and frightening. It’s normal to have lots of questions and worries.

Your child’s treatment team will talk you through all options, explain why each treatment is being recommended, and support you to make informed decisions.

For further trusted information about relapsed neuroblastoma, you may wish to read the guide from CCLG below.

CCLG Relapse and Refractory Neuroblastoma Guide