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What is Wilms tumor?

Wilms tumor, also called nephroblastoma, is a malignant (cancerous) tumor originating in the cells of the kidney. It is the most common type of renal (kidney) cancer and accounts for about 6 percent of all childhood cancers. As with any cancer, prognosis and long-term survival can vary greatly from child to child, but most children with Wilms tumor can be cured of the disease.

Wilms tumor is unrelated to adult kidney cancer. The tumor usually affects a single kidney, but approximately 5-10 percent of children with Wilms tumor have both kidneys involved.

Who is diagnosed with Wilms tumor?

Wilms tumor occurs in children up to about age 8. About 75 percent of cases occur before age 5, and the average age of children diagnosed with Wilms tumor is 2 to 3 years old. For unknown reasons, Wilms tumor affects more black children than white children.

The average age of diagnosis of Wilms tumor in children depends upon whether one or both kidneys are affected:

  • If one kidney is affected (unilateral Wilms tumor), the age at diagnosis usually is 42-47 months
  • If both kidneys are affected (bilateral Wilms tumor), the age at diagnosis usually is 30-33 months

Most cases of Wilms tumor occur by chance (sporadic). They are the result of mutations in cells in the kidneys that usually occur after birth. In some cases, however, a genetic defect increases the risk of Wilms tumor.

Signs and symptoms of Wilms tumor

Wilms tumor is characterized by:

  • Abdominal swelling, often toward one side
  • Fever
  • Abdominal pain
  • Constipation
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Large swollen veins across the abdomen
  • Blood in the urine (hematuria)
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Frequent urinary tract infections

Diagnosis of Wilms tumor

After taking a complete medical history and doing a physical examination of your child, the physician may also order the following tests to determine if the cancer has spread (metastasized):

  • Abdominal ultrasound,  This imaging test uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create pictures of internal organs, blood vessels, and tissues.
  • Bone scan, This imaging test, which is used to detect bone cancer, uses a special radioactive material that is injected into a vein. The substance collects in areas of diseased bone and is sensed by special cameras that pick up radioactivity.
  • Abdominal computerized tomography scan (CT or CAT scan), This imaging test uses X-rays and computer technology to produce detailed cross-sectional images (slices) of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. It can show a mass in the kidneys and whether the cancer has spread to other organs such as the lungs.
  • Chest X-ray, This imaging test produces images of the heart, lungs, and bones.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), An MRI scan uses radio waves and strong magnets with computer technology. MRI shows more detailed images than CT and ultrasound and can help doctors see if the cancer has invaded one of the major blood vessels located near the kidney.
  • Blood and urine tests, These laboratory tests help evaluate kidney and liver function.
  • Biopsy, A sample of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope; this helps confirm the diagnosis and aids in the treatment plan.

Treatment for Wilms tumor

Your child will be treated by a multidisciplinary team including surgeons, oncologists, urologists, radiologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists and nurse practitioners, who work together to create a treatment plan specific to your child. You and your child will meet with the treatment team to ensure your family has an opportunity to build a trusting relationship with them.

 

ABOUT THE ARMER FOUNDATION FOR KIDS:
Founded by Jennifer and Matt Armer in 2019, the Armer Foundation For Kids (a 501(c)(3) 84-2327428) works to reduce
financial barriers for families so that they can care for their children with chronic or life-altering diseases that can often
lead to unforeseen financial burdens. For more information and to see the children for which they are currently
fundraising, visit www.armerfoundation.org.

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