Germ Cell Tumors
Abstract Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are a very heterogeneous group of tumors that range from benign (teratoma) to highly malignant (choriocarcinoma). Many tumors contain mixed elements. This chapter describes the…
Retinoblastoma
Abstract This chapter discusses the incidence, classification, genetics, epidemiology, pathology, clinical features, diagnosis, staging, treatment, and posttreatment management of retinoblastoma. Keywords retinoblastoma, RBI gene, genetic counseling, chemotherapy, plaque radiotherapy, intra-arterial…
Rhabdomyosarcoma and Other Soft-Tissue Sarcomas
Abstract Soft-tissue sarcomas (STS) are a heterogeneous group of malignant tumors derived from primitive mesenchymal cells. These tumors arise from muscle, connective tissue, supportive tissue, and vascular tissue. As a…
Renal Tumors
Abstract Renal tumors comprise roughly 6% of all childhood malignancies. Wilms’ tumor is the most common pediatric renal tumor. Less common renal tumors include clear cell sarcoma of the kidney,…
Neuroblastoma
Abstract Neuroblastoma originates from primordial neural crest cells that normally give rise to adrenal medulla and sympathetic ganglia. While it accounts for 7% of all childhood malignancies, neuroblastoma accounts for…
Central Nervous System Malignancies
Abstract Tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) are the second most common group of cancers in childhood, accounting for 20% of all childhood malignancies, and affecting 35 per million…
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Abstract Childhood non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is distinguished from adult NHL by differing frequencies of histopathologic types and by the greater frequency of extranodal presentations. With current combination chemotherapy regimens, survival…
Histiocytosis Syndromes
Abstract This chapter describes the causes, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of various types of histiocytosis disorders. Keywords Histiocytosis, Langerhans cell histiocytosis, Rosai–Dorfman disease, emophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, Erdheim–Chester disease, Hand–Schüller–Christian disease,…
Hodgkin Lymphoma
Abstract Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by progressive enlargement of lymph nodes. It is considered unicentric in origin and has a predictable pattern of spread by extension to contiguous nodes. Keywords…
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Abstract Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common malignancy of childhood with a peak incidence between 2 and 6 years of age. Recent advances in understanding the leukemia biology,…
