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.
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.
Cancer
Average Rating:
(Doctor-Reviewed information)
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Cancerous cells are also called malignant cells.Reviewer: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.Date: 08/02/2008
Tumor
Average Rating:
(Doctor-Reviewed information)
A tumor is an abnormal growth of body tissue. Tumors can be cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign.Reviewer: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.Date: 08/03/2008
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