Neuroblastoma. Light micrograph of a section through a malignant (cancerous) tumour, showing tumour cells (dark purple) in typical rosette-shaped arrangements. Neuroblastoma is a childhood cancer that arises from nerve cells in the adrenal glands, which are just above the kidneys. It is very common, comprising 15 per cent of all cancer deaths in children. Treatment is with surgical removal of the tumours where possible and radiation and chemotherapy. Its cause is not known.