Wilms' tumor in adults. Review of 10 cases

A nephroblastoma (Wilms' tumor) is very rarely found in adult patients. We report on 10 cases to demonstrate the diagnostic and therapeutic problems. In case of flank pain, large tumor mass, fast tumor growth, and young age, the possibility of a Wilms' tumor should be taken into consideration even in adult patients. The chances for a successful treatment by primary surgery with adjuvant therapy are favorable for the lower stages I and II. All our patients presenting with tumor stages I and II have survived and are free of disease since 68 months at the time of the study. One of 2 patients with a Wilms' tumor stage III died 8 months postoperatively, while the other is free of disease since 120 months. In the advanced stage IV no patient survived. In cases of inoperable large tumors in adults, the possibility of primary chemotherapy should be considered under certain circumstances. Rapid tumor regression may confirm the diagnosis and will enable salvage operation in some cases.