Wilms Tumor / Kidney Tumors

Expert-reviewed information summary about the treatment of Wilms tumor.Wilms Tumor and Other Childhood Kidney Tumors (PDQ®): TreatmentWilms Tumor and Other Childhood Kidney Tumors Treatment

General Information About Wilms Tumor and Other Childhood Kidney Tumors

Wilms tumor and other childhood kidney tumors are diseases in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the kidney.

Wilms tumor

Wilms tumor and other kidney tumors are diseases in which malignant (cancer) cells are found in the kidney. In Wilms tumor, one or more tumors may be found in one or both kidneys. There are two kidneys, one on each side of the backbone, above the waist. Tiny tubules in the kidneys filter and clean the blood, taking out waste products and making urine. The urine passes from each kidney through a long tube called a ureter into the bladder. The bladder holds the urine until it is passed from the body.

Wilms tumor may spread to the lungs, liver, or nearby lymph nodes.

Diffuse hyperplastic perilobar nephroblastomatosis (DHPLN) is a condition in which abnormal tissue grows on the outer part of one or both kidneys. Children with DHPLN are at risk for developing a type of Wilms tumor that grows quickly. Frequent follow-up testing is important for at least 7 years after the child is diagnosed with DHPLN.