New Clinical Care Center in Texas

By Eric Jonasch, M.D., MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas

A new VHL Clinical Center has recently opened at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. The Clinical Center aims to draw on the MD Anderson Cancer Center’s breadth of experience in managing all aspects of patients’ needs, using a comprehensive roster of specialists possessing skills specific to patients and families living with VHL.

Initial contact with the Clinical Center occurs through the Genetics Counseling department, led by Dr. Louise Strong, a leader in Cancer Genetics. Four Genetics counselors work in the department, including Molly Daniels, the contact person for patients making inquiries to the Clinical Center. Coordination of care occurs in association with the Genitourinary Medical Oncology department through the office of Dr. Eric Jonasch, a clinical researcher with a specific interest in renal cell carcinoma.

A schedule tailored to the specific needs of patients and families will be generated. The team of physicians associated with the MD Anderson VHL Clinical Center will be contacted to generate screening, treatment and follow up visits necessary for short-term and long-term care.

A number of specific techniques and skills uniquely suited for patients living with VHL exist at the MD Anderson Cancer. These include minimally invasive surgery, performed by Dr. Surena Matin in the Urology department. Dr. Kamran Ahrar has extensive experience in radiofrequency ablation. Dr. Franco DeMonte is an expert neurosurgeon with experience in the management of the neurological manifestations of VHL. Dr. Douglas Evans is a leader in pancreatic surgery, and has long dealt with the pancreatic manifestations of VHL. Dr Morris Groves represents the Neuro-Oncology department, and Dr. Bita Esmaeli brings her experience in Ophthalmology to the VHL Clinical Center.

The MD Anderson Cancer Center has state-of-the-art imaging and therapeutic facilities. Together with the team of physicians and counselors in the VHL Clinical Center, the goal is to deliver state-of-the art therapy in a caring environment. The VHL Clinical Center can be reached by email at ccg@mdanderson.org or by phone at +1 (713) 745-7391.

1. Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) is the process of using a laparoscopic heat probe to "cook" kidney tumors in place. See VHLFF, Sept 2000.