Wilms tumor Health Article

Definition

Wilms tumor is a type of kidney cancer that occurs in children.

Alternative Names

Nephroblastoma; Kidney tumor

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Wilms tumor is the most common form of childhood kidney cancer. The exact cause of this tumor in most children is unknown.

A missing iris of the eye (aniridia) is a birth defect that is sometimes associated with Wilms tumor. Other birth defects linked to this type of kidney cancer include certain urinary tract problems and enlargement of one side of the body, a condition called hemihypertrophy.

It is more common among some siblings and twins, which suggests a possible genetic cause.

The disease occurs in about 1 out of 200,000 to 250,000 children. It usually strikes when a child is about 3 years old. It rarely develops after age 8.

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Fever
• General discomfort or uneasiness (malaise)
• High blood pressure
• Increased growth on only one side of the body
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Swelling in the abdomen (abdominal hernia or mass)
• Vomiting

Note: Abnormal urine color may also be associated with this disease.

Signs and tests

Special emphasis is placed on the history and physical exam. The doctor ask if you have a family history of cancer and look for associated birth defects in the child.

A physical examination reveals an abdominal mass. High blood pressure may also be present.

Blood in the urine occurs in less than 25% of children.

Tests include:

• Abdominal ultrasound
• Abdominal x-ray
• BUN
• Chest x-ray
• Complete blood count (may show anemia)
• Creatinine
• Creatinine clearance
• CT scan of the abdomen
• Intravenous pyelogram
• Urinalysis

Other tests may be required to determine if the tumor has spread.