Treating Wilms Tumor

Wilm’s Tumor is the most common cause of kidney cancer in children. In this effective video, Ashley Munchel, MD, explains how doctors at the University of Maryland Children’s Hospital diagnose and treat Wilm’s Tumor. It is most diagnosed in children ages 3 to 5 years old, often after either the parent or pediatrician feels a lump or large mass in the child’s belly.

The best way to treat Wilm’s Tumor is to surgically remove the kidney, and then undergo chemotherapy to kill cancer cells that may remain in the body. Radiation therapy is also sometimes needed. Using this approach, University of Maryland doctors can cure more than 90 percent of children diagnosed with Wilm’s Tumor.