Wilms' tumour in adults: a case report and review of the literature

Ir J Med Sci. 2007 Mar;176(1):49-51. doi: 10.1007/s11845-007-0012-3.

Abstract

Background: Wilms' tumour is a very rare adult malignancy representing 1% of adult renal tumours. It is however the most common renal tumour of childhood, and adult patients are treated in accordance with paediatric protocols.

Aim: To review modern day management of adult Wilms' tumour.

Methods: We report a case of adult Wilms' tumour and discuss the management including the use of newer treatment modalities.

Results: Following diagnostic nephrectomy, our patient was treated with chemotherapy in accordance with North American paediatric protocols and PET scanning was used to diagnose early relapse.

Conclusion: In the absence of randomised controlled data, central reporting of cases of adult Wilms' Tumour may help improve management. The incorporation of newer chemotherapeutic agents, high-dose therapy and PET scanning into treatment protocols should improve outcome for these patients.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Carboplatin / therapeutic use
  • Cyclophosphamide / therapeutic use
  • Etoposide / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Nephrectomy
  • Positron-Emission Tomography
  • Wilms Tumor / diagnosis*
  • Wilms Tumor / drug therapy
  • Wilms Tumor / surgery

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Etoposide
  • Cyclophosphamide
  • Carboplatin