Wilms tumor

Alternative names:

kidney tumor; nephroblastoma; tumor - Wilms

Treatment:

Clinical staging of the tumor is done to determine the extent of the tumor and to maximize the effectiveness of treatment plans. Surgical exploration and removal of the tumor is scheduled as soon as possible. Regional lymph nodes, abdominal organs, and other tissues are examined and removed if the tumor has spread to those areas. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy will often be started after surgery, depending on the stage of the tumor.

Expectations (prognosis):

With treatment, the disease has a high cure rate. Children with a localized tumor have a 90% cure rate when treated with surgery and chemotherapy or surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy combined.

Complications:

Spreading of the tumor to the lungs, liver, bone, or brain are the main complications. Removal of a bilateral Wilms tumor may leave the patient with marginal kidney function.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you discover an abdominal mass in your child's abdomen or if symptoms of Wilms tumor are present. Adults can develop Wilms tumor, but this is rare.

Call your health care provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop during or after treatment for Wilms tumor, particularly cough, chest pain, weight loss, or persistent fevers.