Predictors and course of hypertension in Wilms tumour patients: a retrospective observational cohort study

Wilms tumour is the second most common extracranial solid tumour in paediatric patients. It is frequently associated with hypertension due to renal artery compression and activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. This study aimed to identify predictors of hypertension, assess therapeutic factors and evaluate its impact on renal function.

We retrospectively analysed 67 patients treated for Wilms tumour following International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP) guidelines at our institution between 2005 and 2024. Clinical records, radiological reports and laboratory data were collected. Statistical analyses were performed to assess the relationship between hypertension, tumour characteristics, treatment and renal function.

Hypertension was strongly associated with central tumour localisation (p=0.0003) and younger patient age (p=0.024). Prolonged postoperative antihypertensive therapy correlated with the need for combination therapy before surgery (p=0.01136). Younger age (p=0.02994) and higher hypertension grade (p=0.03884) were linked to the requirement for multidrug antihypertensive therapy. Hypertension at presentation did not affect renal function at the end of follow-up.

Central tumour localisation and younger age are significant predictors of hypertension in children with Wilms tumour. The need for combination antihypertensive therapy before surgery predicts prolonged postoperative treatment. These findings underline the importance of early identification and management of hypertension in affected patients.