Wilms' Tumor

Why choose us for Wilms’ Tumor care?

What you need to know about Wilms’ Tumor

Wilms’ tumor, also known as nephroblastoma, is a type of kidney cancer that primarily affects children. It is named after Dr. Max Wilms, a German surgeon who first described it in the late 19th century.

Wilms’ tumor typically originates in the kidneys, which are bean-shaped organs located in the back of the abdomen. It most commonly affects children between the ages of 3 and 4, although it can occur in older children and, more rarely, in adults.

How to talk to your doctor about Wilms’ Tumor

  1. Preparation:

    • Gather all relevant information about your symptoms and medical history.
    • Write down any questions or concerns you have about Wilms’ tumor.
  2. Initiate the Conversation:

    • Express your concerns to your doctor about the possibility of Wilms’ tumor.
    • Share specific details about your symptoms and when they started.
  3. Ask Questions:

    • Inquire about tests needed to confirm or rule out Wilms’ tumor.
    • Seek clarification on potential causes, treatment options, and prognosis.
    • Understand the side effects and risks associated with treatment.
  4. Discuss Treatment Options:

    • Explore available treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
    • Understand the benefits and risks of each treatment option.
  5. Consider Support:

    • Bring a trusted friend or family member to your appointment for emotional support.
    • Don’t hesitate to express any worries or fears you may have.
  6. Understand Follow-Up Plans:

    • Clarify the next steps in your diagnosis and treatment plan.
    • Discuss follow-up appointments, additional tests, or referrals to specialists.
  7. Express Concerns:

    • Share any worries or fears with your doctor for reassurance and support.
    • Maintain open and honest communication throughout your journey.

Remember, effective communication with your doctor is crucial for receiving the best possible care for Wilms’ tumor.

  1. Classic Wilms’ Tumor: This is the most common type, characterized by a triphasic histology, meaning it contains three distinct types of cells: blastemal, stromal, and epithelial.

  2. Anaplastic Wilms’ Tumor: This is a less common and more aggressive subtype characterized by the presence of anaplastic or undifferentiated cells.

The exact cause of Wilms’ tumor is not fully understood. However, researchers believe that genetic and environmental factors may play a role. Some genetic syndromes, such as WAGR syndrome, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, and Denys-Drash syndrome, are associated with an increased risk of Wilms’ tumor.

  • Abdominal swelling or mass, which may be painless
  • Abdominal pain
  • Fever
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Blood in the urine
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  1. Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used to visualize the tumor and assess its size and location.

  2. Biopsy: A small sample of the tumor may be removed and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and determine the tumor’s histology.

  3. Staging: Once Wilms’ tumor is diagnosed, further tests such as chest X-ray, bone scan, and abdominal imaging are done to determine the extent of the cancer and its stage.

  1. Surgery: The primary treatment for Wilms’ tumor is surgical removal of the tumor. In most cases, the entire kidney containing the tumor is removed (nephrectomy).

  2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is often used before or after surgery to shrink the tumor and kill any remaining cancer cells.

  3. Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may be used in some cases, particularly if the tumor is large or has spread beyond the kidney.

  4. Targeted Therapy: In certain cases, targeted therapies or immunotherapy may be used, especially for recurrent or metastatic Wilms’ tumor.

  5. Follow-Up Care: Long-term follow-up care is essential to monitor for any signs of recurrence and manage any late effects of treatment.

Overall, the treatment approach for Wilms’ tumor depends on factors such as the stage of the cancer, the child’s age and overall health, and whether the tumor has spread to other parts of the body.