Which description best defines neuroblastoma?

Neuroblastoma is primarily characterized as a cancer that originates from immature nerve cells, specifically from neuroblasts, which are cells that are typically found in the developing nervous system. This type of cancer is most commonly seen in infants and young children and represents one of the most common cancers in this age group. The malignant nature of neuroblastoma arises from the unregulated growth of these immature nerve cells, leading to tumor formation, primarily in the adrenal glands or along the sympathetic nervous system.

The distinction between neuroblastoma and other options is crucial. It is not a benign tumor, as benign tumors are non-cancerous and do not invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body. Additionally, while genetic factors may play a role in some cancers, neuroblastoma itself is primarily considered a malignancy rather than a genetic disorder. An autoimmune disease involves the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's own tissues, which is not relevant in the context of neuroblastoma. Understanding these differences is key to grasping the nature of neuroblastoma as an aggressive childhood cancer.