Pediatric genitourinary tumors

Abstract

Purpose of review: We will review the 2005 and 2006 literature on pediatric genitourinary tumors.

Recent findings: Survival continues to improve for primary renal, bladder/prostate and testicular tumors in childhood. The addition of more intensive chemotherapy for anaplastic histology disease, recognition of loss of heterozygosity for chromosomes 1p and 16q as an adverse prognostic factor in favorable histology Wilms' tumor, and the utilization of molecular markers to better characterize all renal tumors will better enable individualized therapy. Recognition and treatment of anaplastic histology and bilateral Wilms' tumor remains a challenge. In rhabdomyosarcoma, genitourinary site and embryonal histology confer a relatively favorable prognosis.

Summary: Advances in molecular oncology, diagnostic imaging, surgical approaches and long-term follow-up of childhood cancer survivors drive risk-stratified therapy in pediatric genitourinary tumors.