Which of the following is a ourable prognostic factor in a case of neuroblastoma?
**Core Concept**
Neuroblastoma is a type of pediatric cancer that arises from the adrenal glands or sympathetic nervous system. Prognostic factors in neuroblastoma help predict the likelihood of successful treatment and patient survival.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **C. Age less than 12 months**. This is because infants with neuroblastoma tend to have a more favorable prognosis due to the higher likelihood of spontaneous regression of the tumor. Younger age at diagnosis is associated with a higher likelihood of complete resection and reduced need for aggressive therapy, which can improve outcomes.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** **Stage of disease** is an important prognostic factor in neuroblastoma, but it is not the most significant factor. Stage IV disease, for example, has a poorer prognosis than stage I disease.
**Option B:** **MYCN amplification** is a known adverse prognostic factor in neuroblastoma, as it is associated with aggressive tumor behavior and poor outcomes.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Infants with neuroblastoma who present with a large anterior mediastinal mass and a parasympathetic syndrome (such as Horner's syndrome) are more likely to have a favorable prognosis and spontaneous regression of the tumor.
**Correct Answer:** C.