Renal Medullary Carcinoma- Rare But Not Invisible
Renal Medullary Carcinoma- Rare But Not Invisible
What is renal medullary carcinoma?
Renal medullary carcinoma is a rare form of cancer that develops in the kidneys.
Who is affected by renal medullary carcinoma?
The vast majority of people affected by RMC have sickle cell trait, and in some rare cases sickle cell disease, there have also been very rare cases in people without sickle cell trait or disease.
What are the symptoms of RMC?
Symptoms include, but are not limited to blood in urine, back pain, abdominal pain, flank pain, night sweats, persistent cough, unintentional weight loss, fatigue, loss of appetite.
What are risk factors of developing RMC?
The only risk factor that doctors are aware of is having sickle cell trait. More research is needed to understand the biology of this disease.
How is RMC treated?
The vast majority of patients have stage IV disease at the time of diagnosis, making RMC difficult to treat. Treatment options are very limited to chemotherapy, nephrectomy and experimental therapies to those who qualify.
Is there a cure?
Not yet. RMC is essentially a lethal disease with a median survival of 12 months, although there are patients who have been reported to live longer.
What is next?
We must work together to support the researchers, medical professionals, advocates, and organizations dedicated to treating and curing this illness. To honor the memory of the loved ones we have lost, or that are fighting for their life.