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Wilms' tumour presenting as a pulmonary embolism
W Ceelen1, I Kerremans, N Lutz-Dettinger
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital, Gent University Medical School, Belgium.
Acta Chirurgica Belgica
|June 1, 1997
Summary
A rare case of Wilms' tumour (nephroblastoma) presented as a massive pulmonary embolism in a 7-week-old infant. This presentation is exceptionally uncommon, with only four such pediatric cases documented in medical literature.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Nephrology
Background:
- Wilms' tumour (nephroblastoma) is a common pediatric malignancy.
- Renal vein invasion occurs in approximately 40% of Wilms' tumour cases.
- Rarely, Wilms' tumours can extend into the inferior vena cava and right atrium.
Observation:
- A 7-week-old female infant presented with acute massive pulmonary embolism.
- A large left kidney tumour was identified as the cause.
- The tumour was diagnosed as Wilms' tumour.
Findings:
- This case represents an extremely rare presentation of Wilms' tumour.
- It is the fourth documented instance of Wilms' tumour presenting as massive pulmonary embolism in literature.
- The review includes diagnostic and therapeutic features of this rare clinical entity.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering rare differential diagnoses in pediatric emergencies.
- Emphasizes the need for thorough diagnostic workup in infants with unexplained pulmonary embolism.
- Informs clinical management strategies for Wilms' tumour with unusual presentations.