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Condition

Pediatric Wilms Tumor and Kidney Tumors

What is 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 in children and accounts for about 5% of all childhood cancers.

Approximately 500 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with Wilms tumor each year.

The disease can occur at any age between infancy and 15 years, but in most cases, the tumor is detected by the age of 3. It is slightly more common among girls and African-Americans.

The tumor can be very large and it may spread (metastasize) to other body tissues. The most common site for Wilms tumor to metastasize is the lungs. Lesions may also occur, however, in the liver, the other kidney, brain, and/or bones. In approximately 5% of children with Wilms tumor, both kidneys are involved.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Wilms tumor in children?

What are the symptoms of Wilms tumor in children?

How is Wilms tumor diagnosed in children?

How is Wilms tumor treated in children?

What is the long-term outlook for Wilms tumor in children?

Providers Who Treat Wilms Tumor and Kidney Tumors

    Departments that Treat Wilms Tumor and Kidney Tumors

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    Solid Tumor Program

    Our Solid Tumor Program has a dedicated team of sarcoma experts who specialize in the newest treatments and clinical trials.

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    General and Thoracic Surgery

    The pediatric surgical experts at Children's National in Washington, D.C., provide advanced, comprehensive surgical care for infants, children and teenagers.

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    Oncology

    Our oncology (cancer) team provides personalized treatment plans for children with cancer, including access to clinical trials.