Management of fetal tumors.

OBJECTIVE

To review the diagnosis, management, and treatment options of tumors presenting during fetal development.

METHODS

Recognized textbooks and peer-reviewed literature (from the years 1985-2006) were summarized for the most common information on fetal tumors.

RESULTS

Fetal tumors are rare, with a usual prevalence of less than 1 in 10,000 live births. The list of fetal tumors reviewed includes tumors involving multiple sites, such as teratoma, lymphangioma, and hemangioma, and tumors located specifically in organs such the liver, adrenal gland, kidney, and placenta.

CONCLUSIONS

Prenatal diagnosis, surveillance, and treatment of fetal tumors is limited to case reports, small series, and single-institution experience.