Do Neuroblastoma Cells Divide?

Neuroblastomas can occur when normal fetal neuroblasts do not become mature cells, but instead continue to grow and divide.

What happens to the cells in neuroblastoma?

Neuroblastoma happens when immature nerve tissues (neuroblasts) grow out of control. The cells become abnormal and continue growing and dividing, forming a tumor. A genetic mutation (a change in the neuroblast's genes) causes the cells to grow and divide uncontrollably.

What are neuroblastoma cells?

Neuroblastoma is a cancer that starts in certain very early forms of nerve cells, most often found in an embryo or fetus. (The term neuro refers to nerves, while blastoma refers to a cancer that starts in immature or developing cells). This type of cancer occurs most often in infants and young children.