Solid tumours of childhood

The commonest solid tumours occurring in childhood are neuroblastoma, Wilms’ tumour, rhabdomyosarcoma, germ cell tumours, hepatoblastoma and lymphoma. Childhood tumours are unique in that they often originate from primitive embryonic cell types and therefore are usually chemosensitive and radiosensitive.The survival from solid tumours in childhood has improved steadily with a reduction in morbidity and mortality related to treatment. This is due to the enrolment of patients in large multicentre studies led by International oncology groups. The care of children with cancer is multidisciplinary, involving oncologists, radiotherapists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, pharmacists and specialist nurses.Surgery plays a major role in the management of most solid tumours of childhood within the multidisciplinary team. The accurate diagnosis and staging of these tumours is important. Determining the best time for surgical intervention in relation to the response to chemotherapy can be essential for achieving good outcomes in the care of children with solid tumours.