Ultrasound of Wilms' tumor

Abstract

The grey scale ultrasound features of 30 cases of Wilms' tumour examined using a water delay scanner are presented. Eighty-seven percent of masses were of uniform texture, with echogenicity equal to or slightly greater than that of liver with small hypo-echoic areas. There were no totally cystic tumours in the series. In 21 cases the mass was clearly arising from the ipsilateral kidney, but in 9 cases the ipsilateral kidney could not be distinguished from the tumour. The state of the intrahepatic inferior vena cava (IVC) was correctly diagnosed in 27 cases and further evaluation was needed in two patients in whom this segment could not be demonstrated. If this segment is sonographically normal, then the IVC need not be evaluated further. Differential diagnosis is discussed, with particular reference to neuroblastoma. In the majority of patients ultrasound is the only modality needed to diagnose Wilms' tumour pre-operatively.

SIOP PODC: Clinical guidelines for the management of children with Wilms tumour in a low income setting

“…Ultrasonography of the abdomen is extremely useful to confirm the diagnosis [12][13][14] (Table III). It is also a non-invasive, useful diagnostic tool for many general paediatric patients in setting 1.…”

Imaging of Solid Kidney Tumours in Children

“…Contrast-enhanced CT and non-enhanced MR correctly assessed the tumour origin in all patients. It has been suggested that US can be sufficient as the only imaging modality needed prior to surgery (8,11). The present study indicates that this is not true for large tumours.…”

Wilms' Tumour and Genitourinary Rhabdomyosarcoma

“…Angiography of the vena cava by direct femoral puncture is safe, with no reported cases of tumour embolism. Ultrasound has also proved reliable, but studies suggesting caval occlusion may be caused purely by the weight of tumour pressing on the vessel; under such circumstances, reappraisal in the lateral or prone position may clarify the true diagnosis (De Campo, 1986).…”