The stages of Wilms tumor describe the extent to which the cancer has spread, which is crucial for determining the most effective course of treatment. Staging is typically assigned based on the results of imaging studies and findings during surgery.
Here are the stages of Wilms tumor:
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Stage I | The tumor is completely removed. This means the cancer is confined to the kidney and has been entirely surgically resected, with no evidence of spread to surrounding tissues or structures. |
| Stage II | The tumor grew through the kidney capsule but was completely removed. While the cancer extended beyond the kidney, the surgeon was able to remove all visible tumor during the operation. There is no residual tumor left in the abdominal area. |
| Stage III | There is residual abdominal tumor. This can occur due to various reasons, including:
|
| Stage IV | The tumor has spread to distant organs. This typically means the cancer has metastasized to the lung or the liver, indicating a more advanced stage of the disease. |
Understanding these stages helps healthcare professionals tailor treatment plans, which often involve a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy.
