Neuroblastoma
The UK NSC policy on Neuroblastoma screening in newborns
More Information
Neuroblastoma is a malignant childhood cancer and leukaemia of the sympathetic nervous system. Most tumours arise from the centre (medulla) of the adrenal gland which lies above the kidney. Other sites of the disease include the chest, the spine and the pelvis. Some tumours may disappear without treatment.
» Read more about neuroblastoma on the Contact a Family website
Policy Position
Screening for neuroblastoma should not be offered.
This policy was reviewed in Jul 2006 but no significant changes were made. It is due to be considered again in 2013/14, or earlier if significant new evidence emerges.
Evidence Supporting the Policy
Following results from screening programmes established in Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, and the UK, an HTA report on neuroblastoma was commissioned (see below). This report found that there is still considerable uncertainty whether or not population-based screening for neuroblastoma is clinically effective, what the optimal age at which to screen is, and whether the optimal screening strategy is one stage or multistage.
Health Technology Assessment 2003; Vol. 7: No. 5. A systematic review and evaluation of the use of tumour markers in paediatric oncology: Ewing's sarcoma and neuroblastoma (Riley et al)
Stakeholders
The British Association for Cancer Research
British Association of Surgical Oncology
Cancer Research UK
CLIC Sargent
Institute of Child Health
Rarer Cancers Forum
Royal College of Midwives
Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
Royal College of Physicians
Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh
Royal College of Surgeons
The stakeholder groups will be involved when the policy is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.
