Wilms Tumour
What is Wilms Tumour?
Wilms tumour, also known as nephroblastoma, is a type of kidney cancer that primarily affects children. It is the most common type of kidney cancer in children, usually diagnosed in children around the age of 3 to 4 years old.
Symptoms of Wilms Tumour
The symptoms of Wilms tumour may include:
- Abdominal swelling or mass
- Blood in the urine
- Pain in the abdomen
- High blood pressure
Treatment of Wilms Tumour
Treatment for Wilms tumour typically involves surgery to remove the tumour, followed by chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be used.
FAQ
1. What causes Wilms tumour?
Wilms tumour is thought to arise from genetic mutations that occur during fetal development.
2. Is Wilms tumour hereditary?
In most cases, Wilms tumour is not hereditary. However, in rare cases, it can be associated with certain genetic syndromes.
3. How is Wilms tumour diagnosed?
Wilms tumour is often diagnosed through imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, followed by a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
4. What is the prognosis for Wilms tumour?
The prognosis for Wilms tumour is generally good, with a high cure rate if detected and treated early.
5. Are there any long-term side effects of Wilms tumour treatment?
Some children may experience long-term side effects from treatment, such as reduced kidney function or an increased risk of developing other cancers later in life.
6. Can Wilms tumour recur?
Wilms tumour can recur in some cases, which is why long-term follow-up care is important after treatment.
7. Can Wilms tumour be prevented?
There is currently no known way to prevent Wilms tumour. Early detection and treatment are key to improving outcomes.
8. What are the risk factors for Wilms tumour?
Some risk factors for Wilms tumour include certain genetic syndromes, family history of the disease, and exposure to certain chemicals or radiation during pregnancy.
9. Is Wilms tumour more common in boys or girls?
Wilms tumour is slightly more common in girls than boys.
10. What support is available for families of children with Wilms tumour?
There are various support services and organizations that provide emotional and practical support for families of children with Wilms tumour.