Wilms' tumor or Wilms tumor,[3] also known as nephroblastoma, is a cancer of the kidneys that typically occurs in children (rarely in adults),[4] and occurs most commonly as a renal tumor in child patients.[5][6] It is named after Max Wilms, the German surgeon (1867–1918) who first described it.[7]
Approximately 650 cases are diagnosed in the U.S. annually.[2] The majority of cases occur in children with no associated genetic syndromes; however, a minority of children with Wilms' tumor have a congenital abnormality.[2] It is highly responsive to treatment, with about 90 percent of children being cured.[2]