The UMBRELLA SIOP-RTSG 2016 Wilms tumour pathology and molecular biology protocol

Gordan M Vujanić1, Manfred Gessler2,3, Ariadne H A G Ooms4

  • 1Department of Pathology, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar. gvujanic@sidra.org.

Nature Reviews. Urology
|October 13, 2018
PubMed

Insights

The UMBRELLA protocol refines Wilms tumour treatment by identifying high-risk patient subgroups using new prognostic factors. This aims to improve outcomes and reduce chemotherapy side effects in paediatric renal tumours.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Nephrology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Existing Wilms tumour treatments yield excellent outcomes, yet specific patient subgroups face poor prognoses and higher relapse rates.
  • Identifying these high-risk subgroups is crucial for refining treatment stratification and minimizing chemotherapy's adverse effects.
  • Previous national and international trials informed the development of a new study protocol.

Framework:

  • The UMBRELLA SIOP-RTSG 2016 protocol (UMBRELLA protocol) is a new international study for pediatric renal tumors.
  • It aims to validate novel prognostic factors, including blastemal tumor volume and molecular markers, for improved patient outcomes.
  • The protocol emphasizes the need for large, high-quality international databases.

Implementation:

  • Optimization and international harmonization of specimen handling and comprehensive biological material sampling are critical.
  • Refined definitions and improved logistics for expert review are essential for protocol success.
  • An updated SIOP-RTSG pathology and molecular biology protocol for Wilms tumors has been established.

Implications:

  • The UMBRELLA protocol seeks to further improve outcomes for Wilms tumour patients.
  • It facilitates better treatment stratification, potentially reducing both immediate and long-term chemotherapy-related toxicities.
  • Broad implementation of the protocol is supported by a consensus pathology and molecular biology guideline.