Abstract

Wilms tumor is the most common renal tumor of childhood. Data collected from multi-centered long-term studies conducted in America and Europe have determined the treatment approaches and also both increased survival and decreased rates of morbidity secondary to treatments. Although cure rates are above 95% in early stage disease with certain chemotherapy regimens and appropriate surgical excision, controversies still exist about surgical approach and treatment modalities in cases with advanced-stage disease, anaplasia, bilateral involvement, thrombus formation and associated syndromes. Preservation of renal functions and alleviation of adverse effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy are targeted in long-term survivors. The purpose of this article is to review the issues that should be given attention during stages of diagnosis and treatment, long-term survival and renal functions in patients with Wilms tumor in the light of current literature.