Genitourinary tract cancer in childhood

Tumors of the genitourinary tract are heterogeneous and can be organized according to both site and specific histopathology. This article divides these neoplasms into primary tumor originating from the kidney, adrenal gland, collecting system, urinary bladder, and gonads. Primary renal tumors are further subdivided into Wilms' tumors and rare kidney tumors of childhood including clear cell sarcoma, rhabdoid tumors, mesoblastic nephromas, and renal cell carcinoma, sarcomas, and lymphomas. The rarity and smooth muscle origin of collecting system tumors is noted. Adrenal tumors are divided into cortical and medullary. Cortical neoplasms include adenomas and renal cortical carcinomas; pheochromocytoma and neuroblastoma arise from the adrenal medulla. Bladder and prostate rhabdomyosarcomas most frequently affect these organs and are discussed together. Finally, gonadal neoplasms with emphasis on germ cell tumors of these organs are presented. The multidisciplinary approach and importance of the pediatric surgical oncologist in the management of genitourinary tumors in childhood are emphasized.