Case review of epithelial-type Wilms tumor in a 23-year-old female with clear surgical margins

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Frontiers in Medicine Published May 17, 2026 Medically reviewed May 17, 2026 DOI ↗ By Dr. Julia Lee, PhD · Oncology, Genomics & Drug Development

Key Takeaway

Note that epithelial-type Wilms tumor is rare and requires individualized decision-making in young adults.

This publication is a case review focusing on a single 23-year-old female patient. The patient presented with a renal mass that was treated with a right radical nephrectomy. The setting of the case is not reported. Histopathological diagnosis confirmed the presence of an epithelial-type Wilms tumor. No evidence of metastasis was found, and surgical margins were clear. The sample size for this review is one patient. Safety data regarding adverse events or tolerability were not reported. Follow-up duration was not reported. The primary outcome of histopathological diagnosis was confirmed. Secondary outcomes regarding metastasis and surgical margins were also documented. The main results indicate successful surgical resection without immediate evidence of spread. The authors highlight the rarity of the condition as a key limitation. Management of such cases remains a subject of ongoing research. Optimal treatment approach often requires individualized decision-making. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention remain critical for improving patient outcomes. Awareness of such rare tumors is essential in the differential diagnosis of renal masses in young adults.

Study Details

Study typeSystematic review

EvidenceLevel 1

PublishedMay 2026

View Original Abstract ↓

BackgroundWilms tumor (WT) is a rare renal malignancy most commonly diagnosed in children, but it is exceedingly rare in adults. Adult Wilms tumor (AWT) presents a diagnostic challenge due to its overlap with other renal neoplasms, such as renal cell carcinoma. Among its different histological subtypes, epithelial-type Wilms tumor is even rarer, presenting with predominantly epithelial differentiation, which can mimic other epithelial renal malignancies.Case reportThis case report discusses a 23-year-old female who presented with a two-year history of painless hematuria and a palpable right kidney mass. Imaging revealed a large renal mass, and the patient underwent a right radical nephrectomy. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of epithelial-type Wilms tumor, with no evidence of metastasis and clear surgical margins. Despite the rarity of this condition, the case highlights the importance of accurate histopathological diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies for adult patients with rare renal tumors. The management of adult Wilms tumors remains a subject of ongoing research, and the optimal treatment approach often requires individualized decision-making.ConclusionEarly diagnosis and surgical intervention remain critical for improving patient outcomes, and awareness of such rare tumors is essential in the differential diagnosis of renal masses in young adults.