Which are the symptoms of Wilms Tumor?

Wilms tumor, also known as nephroblastoma, is a rare type of kidney cancer that primarily affects children. It typically occurs in children aged 3 to 4 years and is rarely seen in older children or adults. Wilms tumor is named after Dr. Max Wilms, a German surgeon who first described this condition in 1899.

Symptoms:

The signs and symptoms of Wilms tumor can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor. Some common symptoms include:

• Abdominal swelling or mass: One of the most noticeable signs of Wilms tumor is the presence of a firm, non-tender mass or swelling in the abdomen. This mass may be felt by the child or their parents during routine physical examination.


• Abdominal pain: Children with Wilms tumor may experience abdominal pain or discomfort. The pain can be intermittent or persistent and may worsen over time.


• Blood in the urine: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is another common symptom of Wilms tumor. The urine may appear pink, red, or brown in color.


• High blood pressure: In some cases, Wilms tumor can cause hypertension (high blood pressure). This is due to the tumor's effect on the blood vessels in the kidney.


• Fever: Children with Wilms tumor may develop a fever that is unrelated to any other illness. This fever is often low-grade and persistent.


• Loss of appetite and weight loss: Wilms tumor can cause a decrease in appetite, leading to weight loss in affected children.


• Fatigue: Children with Wilms tumor may experience fatigue or a general feeling of tiredness.


• Anemia: In some cases, the tumor can lead to anemia, which is characterized by a low red blood cell count. Anemia can cause weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.


• Other symptoms: Less commonly, Wilms tumor may present with symptoms such as constipation, nausea, vomiting, and chest pain if the tumor has spread to other organs.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

If Wilms tumor is suspected, a thorough medical evaluation is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. This typically involves a combination of imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, to visualize the tumor and determine its size and location. A biopsy may also be performed to obtain a tissue sample for further analysis.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment for Wilms tumor usually involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy. The specific treatment plan depends on various factors, including the stage of the tumor, its size, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

Prognosis:

The prognosis for children with Wilms tumor has significantly improved over the years, thanks to advancements in medical care. The overall survival rate for children with favorable histology (a type of Wilms tumor with a good prognosis) is around 90%. However, the prognosis may vary depending on the stage and characteristics of the tumor.

Regular follow-up care is essential for children who have been treated for Wilms tumor to monitor for any signs of recurrence or long-term complications. With appropriate treatment and ongoing medical management, many children with Wilms tumor can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.