Wilms' tumor
Wilms' Tumor
Wilms' tumor (/'wɪlmz/), also known as nephroblastoma, is a rare type of kidney cancer that primarily affects children. The etymology of the term originates from the name of Dr. Max Wilms, a German surgeon who first described this tumor.
Definition
Wilms' tumor is a malignant tumor that originates in the cells of the kidney. It is the most common type of kidney cancer in children, accounting for approximately 90% of pediatric renal malignancies.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of Wilms' tumor include abdominal swelling or a mass, pain, fever, and blood in the urine (hematuria). However, some children with Wilms' tumor may not exhibit any symptoms.
Causes
The exact cause of Wilms' tumor is unknown. However, it is believed to develop from immature kidney cells (nephrogenic rests) that persist after birth. Some children with Wilms' tumor have certain genetic syndromes, such as WAGR syndrome, Denys-Drash syndrome, or Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, which increase their risk of developing this disease.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Wilms' tumor typically involves a combination of physical examination, blood tests, urine tests, imaging studies (such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI), and biopsy.
Treatment
Treatment for Wilms' tumor usually involves surgery to remove the tumor, followed by chemotherapy. In some cases, radiation therapy may also be used. The specific treatment plan depends on the stage and histology of the tumor, as well as the child's overall health.
Prognosis
The prognosis for children with Wilms' tumor is generally good, with a survival rate of over 90% in cases detected early and treated appropriately.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Wilms' tumor
- Wikipedia's article - Wilms' tumor
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