Somatic growth and renal function after unilateral nephrectomy for Wilms' tumor

Solitary kidneys in renal donors and patients who have undergone unilateral nephrectomy for malignant disease have been reported to undergo hyperfiltr ation injury. This study was undertaken to evaluate the somatic growth and development of followed-up patient after Wilms' tumor to evaluate their ren al function and identify any evidence of injury in the remaining kidney. Th e growth and development of all the children was found to be normal, as was DTPA clearance. Microalbuminuria in 24-h urinary collections was detected in 84% of the patients, indicating evidence of hyperfiltration injury. This study highlights the need for close monitoring of the renal function of lo ng-term follow-up patients after Wilms' tumor in addition to the routine mo nitoring for tumor recurrence.