Wilms' tumour (nephroblastoma)

Abstract

Wilms’ tumour or Nephroblastoma is the most common primary renal tumour of childhood.
Most cases are sporadic, and 12-15% cases are associated with congenital abnomalities.
The most common presentation is the presence of an abdominal swelling or mass.
Good abdominal examination is necessary in Paediatrics for early detection of an abdominal mass.
The simplest investigation to diagnose Wilms’ tumour is an ultrasound of the abdomen.
Children with suspected Wilms’ tumour should always be referred to a Paediatric Oncology Unit
Treatment involves multimodality therapy.
Surgery is the cornerstone of treatment, either primarily or after neo-adjuvant chemotherapy
Post-surgical therapy is stage and histology dependant and includes both chemotherapy and radiation therapy
Prognosis is good with a 90% 5year survival rate.