Ganglioneuroma

Also known as: benign neurogenic tumor

What is ganglioneuroma?

A ganglioneuroma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that typically develops in the autonomic nerve cells found throughout the body. The tumors typically grow slowly and can impact many different areas of the body depending on where they develop.

What causes ganglioneuroma?

Like most cancers, the root cause of ganglioneuroma is due to changes in a cell’s DNA. What specifically causes this change to occur isn’t clear. The tumors are more common along with some genetic diseases like neurofibromatosis type 1.

What are the symptoms of ganglioneuroma?

Ganglioneuroma tends to grow slowly, so many people with the condition don’t experience any symptoms. If symptoms occur, they vary based on the impacted part of the body. For example, ganglioneuroma in the chest can cause chest pain and breathing difficulties, whereas tumors in the abdomen can lead to bloating or abdominal pain. A ganglioneuroma near the spinal cord can lead to spine deformity, pain or loss of function in the extremities.

How can ganglioneuroma affect children?

Ganglioneuroma can develop in both children and adults. Children who have the condition typically develop it when they are 10 years old or older.

What are ganglioneuroma treatments?

If a ganglioneuroma is causing symptoms, surgery to remove the tumor is the standard treatment.

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Reviewed by: Maggie Fader, MD

This page was last updated on: July 29, 2025 04:32 PM