EPIDEMIOLOGIC FEATURES OF WILMS-TUMOR

Studies of incidence patterns of Wilms tumor in various countries and ethnic groups suggest that environmental factors do not play a prominent etiologic role. Analyses of parental occupational and other prenatal exposures have produced inconclusive results. In contrast, studies of the genetic epidemiology of Wilms tumor have yielded many valuable insights. It is clear from these studies that there is heterogeneity in the pathogenetic mechanisms that can give rise to Wilms tumor. The hereditary fraction of Wilms tumor is unknown but will become clear with continued follow-up with survivors and their offspring.