Nephroblastoma (Wilms’ Tumour)

Last updated: 31/05/2023

Overview

Also known as Wilms’ tumour, nephroblastoma is one of the most common malignancies of childhood. It usually occurs in children <5 years old and rarely in adults. It affects around 1 in 10,000 children.

It generally occurs in isolation but may be associated with syndromes such as Edward’s syndrome, WAGR syndrome, and Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome. 

Presentation

Features include:

• Asymptomatic abdominal mass – the most common presentation
  • 95% of cases are unilateral
• Gross haematuria
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Fever

Management

Overview

Any child with an unexplained abdominal mass requires urgent paediatric assessment within 48 hours. Management may involve nephrectomy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.

Prognosis

• With treatment, over 90% of children survive long-term