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Pavlos Msaouel, MD, PhD

University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center

Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine

Dr. Pavlos Msaouel is a clinician and cancer biologist who is focused on particularly rare forms of renal cell and urothelial carcinomas, including renal medullary carcinoma. Throughout the past decade, Dr. Msaouel has received over two dozen honors and awards for his contributions to research and treatment.

Dr. Msaouel completed his Masters in Medicine, and continued to receive his PhD in Neoplasm Biology from the University of Athens medical school. He then completed his internal medical residency at the Jacobi Medical Center / Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Dr. Msaouel served as Chief Fellow with the MD Anderson Cancer Center / University of Texas to complete his oncology fellowship, and now is appointed there as Assistant Professor for the Genitourinary Medical Oncology department.

Having published a number of peer-reviewed articles, Dr. Msaouel has focused his laboratory research on understanding the role of defects in subunits of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex. In his clinical research, he has worked to design and implement new clinical trial concepts.

Video Appearances

Is Sickle Cell Disease a Genetic Defense Against COVID-19?

Program bullet points:

Does sickle cell's resistance to malaria also reduce risk of COVID-19?

Malaria treatment drug hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), COVID-19, and sickle cell patients

Monitor for difficulty breathing; alert care team early

Renal Medullary Carcinoma and COVID-19: Protecting Patients with Advanced Cancers

Program bullet points:

Early detection of COVID-19 infection by symptom is key

Advanced cancer patients at higher risk of complication from infection

What Treatment Options Are Available for Patients Diagnosed with Renal Medullary Carcinoma?

Program bullet points:

A patient must know that treatment for RMC differs from other kidney cancers and therefore must seek experts who manage the particulars of RMC.

Patients should reach out to communities who participate in RMC clinical trials.

The contributions from patients and patient advocates have been immeasurable to the research progress of RMC

The average survival rate has improved 600%

What Steps Can Patients Take To Detect Renal Medullary Carcinoma Early?

Program bullet points:

Dr. Pavlos Msaouel breaks down the steps patients can take to detect Renal Medullary Carcinoma (RMC) early.

First, patients must know whether they carry the sickle cell trait or not.

Second, if blood is present in the urine, going to see a doctor immediately for further testing.

Third, if you are indeed diagnosed with RMC, it’s important to contact physicians who are dedicated to treating this cancer.

Lastly, get in touch with patient advocates and communities so you are not alone.

How Can Providers Combat Inequities in the Care of Renal Medullary Carcinoma Patients?

Program bullet points:

Dr. Msaouel tackles the question of how providers can combat inequities in the care of Renal Medullary Carcinoma (RMC) patients.

Dr. Msaouel urges that healthcare providers raise awareness about RMC and in doing so be diligent about screening patients with particular symptoms.

Providers need to raise more awareness about RMC in the US and globally.

What Health Disparities Exist for Patients with Renal Medullary Carcinoma?

Program bullet points:

Dr. Pavlos Msaouel broaches the disparities that exist for patients with Renal Medullary Carcinoma (RMC).

Young African Americans and Nigerians experience disparities in RMC and are underdiagnosed. Lack of Health Insurance for young African Americans and zero reports in Nigeria prevent proper diagnosis.

The US has data, patient communities, and advocates for RMC, but this effort is needed on a larger global scale.

Are Sickle Cell Disease Patients More Susceptible to Renal Medullary Carcinoma?

Program bullet points:

Having sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait may increase risk for renal medullary carcinoma

Patients with the sickle cell trait may not be aware they have it

Even without SCD, patients with sickle cell trait may have affected blood cells in the medulla of the kidney.

What is Renal Medullary Carcinoma?

Program bullet points:

Renal Medullary Carcinoma: Also known as RMC, a rare cancer of the kidney

Diagnosis: Typically diagnosed after symptoms present

Right Kidney: 75% of all RMC cases happen in right kidney

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