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Prosper
469-303-5000
Fax: 214-867-9511
214-456-6040
Fax: 214-456-6320
469-497-2501
Fax: 469-497-2507
469-488-7000
Fax: 469-488-7001
469-303-5000
Fax: 214-867-9511
Kidney tumors are rare in children, with Wilms tumor (nephroblastoma), occurring most often. Most children with Wilms tumors can be cured, but with Wilms tumors and other rare kidney tumors, it is important to preserve as much of the child’s renal function as possible. Because these cancers are so rare, children who have them should be cared for by a multidisciplinary team of pediatric specialists.
Symptoms can vary, but many children have a swollen abdomen or large mass in the abdomen. Pain, blood in the urine and unexplained fever are other signs of kidney tumors.
Any child with a renal mass should be assessed for possible associated syndromes.
As we learn more about genetic predisposition to kidney tumors, we can better predict and screen for risk of renal cancer among children and adolescents. Certain genetic syndromes predispose children to Wilms tumors and renal cell carcinoma, in particular.
Knowing that a child is at high risk for kidney tumors can help detect the cancer early and help preserve kidney function.
Treatment of Wilms tumors is complex, requiring involvement of a multidisciplinary team of pediatric subspecialists. Because kidney tumors are rare, children should be considered for enrollment in a clinical trial when possible.
Treatment may include:
Children with advanced disease may require high-dose chemotherapy, with a stem cell or kidney transplant.