Wilms tumor is a neoplasm of the kidneys that typically occurs in children. It is eponymously named after Dr Max Wilms http://www.whonamedit.com/doctor.cfm/2109.html , a German surgeon (1867-1918). It is also known as a nephroblastoma.
A triphasic nephroblastoma comprises three elements
The mesenchymal component may include cells showing rhabdomyoid differentiation . The rhabdomyoid component may itself show features of malignancy (rhabdomyosarcomatous Wilms).
Wilms tumor may be sporadic or familial . Predisposition to this neoplasm forms part of some syndromes.
Last updated: 02-03-2005 16:21:10
