Wilms Tumor

Wilms tumor, also called nephroblastoma, is a malignant (cancerous) tumor originating in the cells of the kidney. It is the most common type of renal (kidney) cancer and accounts for about 6 percent of all childhood cancers.

Most children with Wilms tumor can be cured of the disease.Approximately 5-10 percent of children with Wilms tumor have both kidneys involved.

After taking a complete medical history and doing a physical examination of your child, the physician may also order the following tests to determine if the cancer has spread (metastasized):

• Abdominal ultrasound,
• Abdominal computerized tomography scan (CT or CAT scan),  for detailed cross-sectional images of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat and organs. It shows a mass in the kidneys and whether it has  spread outside the kidney capsule, lymph nodes, IVC to other organs such as the lungs.
• Chest X-ray, This imaging test produces images of the heart, lungs and bones.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Blood and urine tests including kidney and liver function.
• Biopsy, A sample of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope; this helps confirm the diagnosis and aids in the treatment plan.