Objectives: Three new cases of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis are described in children. Methods: Laboratory examinations including white and red blood cell counts, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, renal function, urinalysis and cystography were performed. Results: All of the patients had a palpable abdominal mass. Urine culture was positive (Proteus mirabilis) in only 1 patient. Associated urological abnormalities were found in 2 cases. Urographically a functionless kidney was encountered in 2 children and a renal mass in the other. None could be diagnosed preoperatively. Conclusions: Although nephrectomy has been said to be the treatment of choice, conservative treatment can be successful as shown by 1 of our patients.