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ENCYCLOPEDIA INDEX
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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Wilms' tumor

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention
Alternative Names:
Nephroblastoma; Kidney tumor
Symptoms:
  • Abdominal pain
  • Swelling in the abdomen (abdominal hernia or mass)
  • Blood in the urine (occurs in less than 1/4 of children)
  • Fever
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • General discomfort or uneasiness (malaise)
  • High blood pressure
  • Constipation
  • Increased growth on only one side of the body (hemihypertrophy)
Note: Abnormal urine color may also be associated with this disease. A missing iris of the eye (aniridia) is a birth defect that is sometimes associated with Wilms' tumor.

CAUTION: Avoid palpation (prodding or pushing) of the abdomen, and use care during bathing and handling to avoid injury to the tumor site.
Signs and tests:
Special emphasis is placed on the history and physical exam -- looking for a family history of cancer and for associated birth defects in the child. The physical examination reveals an abdominal mass. High blood pressure may also be present.

Tests include: Other tests may be required to determine if the tumor has spread.
Kidney anatomy
Kidney anatomy
Wilms tumor
Wilms tumor
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