What is Wilms’ Tumor?
Wilms’ tumor is a rare type of kidney cancer that affects children. It also is called nephroblastoma. If Wilms’ tumor is found and treated in the early stages, the chances for successful treatment are as high as 95%.
According to the American Cancer Society, about 500 children, most between ages 2 and 5, are diagnosed with Wilms’ tumor each year in this country. While it is rare, it is the most common type of kidney cancer in children.
How does kidney Cancer start in kids developing Wilms’ Tumor?
Problems that cause Wilms’ tumor may begin before birth. As kidney cells mature in the fetus, they become specialized and form different parts of the kidney. Some of the cells continue developing after birth and mature over the next three or four years.
However, in children with Wilms’ tumor, the cells remain immature. They begin to grow and reproduce too quickly, forming a tumor.
Wilms’ tumor generally forms one tumor in one kidney. In rare cases, there may be more than one tumor in one kidney or tumors in both kidneys.
Because they grow rapidly and often don’t have early symptoms, Wilms’ tumors may be large when they are found. Sometimes they spread to other parts of the body, particularly the lungs.
Categorising Wilms’ Tumor
Wilms’ tumors can be classified into two categories depending on how they appear when they are examined with a microscope.
Favorable histology: Almost all Wilms’ tumors are this type. The cells are slightly abnormal. Chances for successful treatment are good.
Unfavorable histology (anaplastic Wilms’ tumor): The cell area that holds the DNA is large and distorted, or anaplastic. Anaplastic tumors are more difficult to treat successfully.
Anything that increases your child’s chance of getting Wilms’ tumor is a risk factor. Although we don’t know exactly what causes Wilms’ tumors, some things may make your child more likely to develop the disease.
Factors to take into consideration:
Race: Wilms’ tumor is more common in African American children. It is least prevalent in Asian American children.
Hypospadias: (defect in boys where the urinary opening is on the underside of the penis)
What we advise :
Not everyone with risk factors gets Wilms’ tumor. However, if your child has risk factors, you should discuss them with your doctor.
Children’s Cancer Hospital is one of the nation’s foremost treatment and research facilities for Wilms’ tumors. When your child is a patient here, we customize a plan of action that includes the most advanced therapies with the least impact on the body.
Our renowned experts, including medical, surgical and radiation oncologists and pathologists, work as a highly specialized team to ensure your child receives the best opportunity for successful treatment. They are supported by a focused staff that includes nurses, physician assistants, therapists, social workers and others.
This group of professionals follows your child from day one through survivorship. This continuity of care and close communication means comprehensive treatment and follow-up for your child.