Wilms' tumor (nephroblastoma) is a malignant mixed tumor containing

metanephric blastema, stromal and epithelial derivatives. It is the most frequent

renal tumor in children before age of 5 years (peak of incidence: 2 year-old).

Etiology of Wilms' tumor (nephroblastoma) : mutations of WT1 gene on

chromosome 11 and nephroblastematosis (persistence of renal blastema in kidney
tissue).

The tumor consists in tumor epithelial component (abortive tubules and glomeruli) surrounded by
metanephric blastema and tumor immature spindled cell stroma. The stroma may include
differentiated (muscle, cartilage, bone, fat tissue, fibrous tissue) or anaplastic elements. The tumor
(photo, left) compresses the normal kidney parenchyma ( photo, right) (H&E, ob. x10)
Wilms' tumor (nephroblastoma) : metanephric blastema, stromal and epithelial components