Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

In an infant with Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome, what is particularly important to monitor for?

1. detached retinas

2. failure to thrive

3. Wilms tumor

4. premature aging

The correct answer is: Wilms tumor

Monitoring for Wilms tumor is particularly important in an infant with Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome due to the association between this genetic condition and an increased risk of certain tumors, particularly Wilms tumor (a type of kidney cancer). Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome is characterized by overgrowth and can involve various alterations in normal growth regulation, leading to an elevated incidence of embryonal tumors. Regular screening and surveillance for kidney abnormalities and abdominal masses is essential in managing these patients. The other options, while important considerations in pediatric care, do not have the same direct association with Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome as Wilms tumor. For instance, detached retinas and premature aging are not specific risks linked to this syndrome, while failure to thrive can occur due to a variety of reasons unrelated to the genetic predisposition present in Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome. Thus, vigilant monitoring for Wilms tumor is a crucial aspect of care for these infants.