Wilms Tumor (Nephroblastoma)
Most common pediatric kidney cancer arising from embryonic renal tissue.
This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Onkoloji department. Book Appointment →
What is Wilms Tumor (Nephroblastoma)?
Wilms tumor (nephroblastoma) is the most common renal malignancy of childhood, accounting for around 6% of pediatric cancers. Median age at diagnosis is 3-4 years, with 75% diagnosed before age 5. The tumor arises from embryonic nephroblasts. Nephrogenic rests are precursor lesions found in 30-40% of resected tumors.
Histology defines favorable (90%) and unfavorable (10%, anaplastic) types. Anaplastic histology, especially diffuse, has worse prognosis. Bilateral disease occurs in 5-10% and is associated with WT1 mutations and constitutional syndromes. Risk syndromes include WAGR (Wilms, aniridia, GU anomalies, mental retardation; WT1 deletion), Beckwith-Wiedemann (chromosome 11p15 imprinting), Denys-Drash (WT1 missense), Perlman, Sotos, and Bloom syndromes.
Patients typically present with painless abdominal mass, hematuria, hypertension, abdominal pain, or fever. Workup includes abdominal ultrasound, CT or MRI, chest CT (lung is most common metastatic site), and assessment for syndromic features. Two main treatment frameworks exist: COG (Children's Oncology Group, US) starts with primary nephrectomy then adjuvant chemo/RT; SIOP (Europe) gives preoperative chemotherapy followed by nephrectomy. Both achieve over 90% overall survival in favorable histology localized disease.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:
- Abdominal mass in young child
- Hematuria in child
- New hypertension in young child
- Abdominal pain with fever
- Aniridia or hemihypertrophy at birth
- Family history of Wilms tumor
- Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome surveillance
- Acute abdominal symptoms in child with abdominal mass
Treatment Methods
Which Department to Visit?
You can visit our Onkoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.
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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.
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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.