Wilms Tumour is a malignant tumour that starts in the cells of the kidney. Malignant means that it can spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body. Wilms Tumour is the most common type of Kidney Cancer in children.
Wilms Tumour may not cause any signs or symptoms in its early stages because the kidneys are located deep in the body and are not very well supplied with nerves. Therefore, these tumours may grow without causing pain or discomfort. Symptoms appear once the tumour grows into surrounding tissues and organs.
The signs and symptoms of Wilms Tumour can also be caused by other health conditions. It is important to have any unusual symptoms checked by a doctor.
Signs and symptoms of Wilms Tumour are:
- Painless lump in the abdomen
- Swelling of the abdomen
- Pain in the abdomen
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- High blood pressure
- Fever
- Veins that appear distended or large across the abdomen
- Weight loss
- Urinary or genital infections
- Changes to digestion
- Loss of appetite
- Upset stomach
- Nausea (rare)
- Vomiting (rare)
- Weakness
- Anemia
- Malaise
- Shortness of breath
Canadian Wilms Tumour Organizations