Can a Wilms tumor occur in an adult woman?
Wilms tumor (WT) is a type of kidney cancer that most commonly affects children. While it is very uncommon in adults, medical records show that it can occur in adult women. Because it is so rare in the adult population, it can sometimes be difficult for doctors to diagnose because it may look like other types of kidney tumors.
What the research says
Medical reports have documented cases of Wilms tumor in several adult women across different age groups. One case involved a 23-year-old woman with an epithelial-type Wilms tumor, which is an even rarer subtype that can mimic other types of cancer 1. Another report described a 19-year-old woman who developed a rare form of the tumor in her ovary rather than her kidney 5.
Research also shows that Wilms tumor can occur in women during pregnancy. One case involved a 23-year-old pregnant woman with spread (disseminated) disease 6. Additionally, historical records show cases of extrarenal Wilms tumor—meaning the tumor is located outside the kidney—in older women, including one reported in a woman aged 56 7. Because these cases are so rare in adults, there are often no standard treatment plans, and doctors must create individualized treatment plans for each patient [1, 6].
What to ask your doctor
- How common is Wilms tumor in adult patients compared to pediatric patients?
- If a renal mass is found, what specific tests can confirm if it is a Wilms tumor or another type of kidney cancer?
- What are the standard treatment options for rare renal tumors in adults?
- Are there specific multidisciplinary teams available to manage complex cases of rare tumors?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Oncology and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.