Recognition and management of childhood cancer syndromes: a systems approach.

Recognition of congenital anomalies that predispose to childhood cancer allows for the institution of a cancer surveillance program, identification of relatives with increased cancer risk, and recurrence risk counseling. In this article, a systems approach to the diagnosis of 21 childhood cancer syndromes is set forth in the format of the pediatric physical examination. In the second part of this article, guidelines are presented for genetic testing, cancer screening, and genetic counseling for the 21 cancer syndromes. Copyright 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.