In Wilms tumor, which action should be avoided during examination?

In Wilms tumor, which action should be avoided during examination?

• A. Palpate abdomen
• B. Inspect abdomen
• C. Do not palpate abdomen
• D. Palpate to assess size

Answer: (C)

Manipulating an abdominal mass in Wilms tumor can rupture the tumor capsule and spread cancer cells within the abdomen, worsening prognosis. Because of this risk, palpation of the abdomen should be avoided during examination. Use nonmanipulative assessment and appropriate imaging—such as ultrasound or CT/MRI—to evaluate the mass. While inspecting the abdomen is acceptable, attempting to palpate to assess size or other characteristics could cause rupture and spread, which is why palpation is avoided.

Manipulating an abdominal mass in Wilms tumor can rupture the tumor capsule and spread cancer cells within the abdomen, worsening prognosis. Because of this risk, palpation of the abdomen should be avoided during examination. Use nonmanipulative assessment and appropriate imaging—such as ultrasound or CT/MRI—to evaluate the mass. While inspecting the abdomen is acceptable, attempting to palpate to assess size or other characteristics could cause rupture and spread, which is why palpation is avoided.