Immunodiagnosis of renal cell carcinoma

Development of immunoassays for the diagnosis of RCC offers significant promise of improved clinical treatment of this disease. While this promise remains to be fulfilled, there is reason to believe that advances will soon be forthcoming. MABs have defined numerous kidney-associated antigens. In at least one instance (ADAbp), an immunoassay has already been established that aids in the diagnosis of benign renal diseases. A similar approach may also be useful in renal cancer. Likewise, in at least one instance a previously undefined peptide (the HHM factor) has been closed and sequenced. Synthesis of this peptide and production of antibodies to it cannot be far off. Measurement of this peptide and/or of the many other aberrantly produced peptides associated with this cancer may be anticipated to improve substantially our ability to diagnose early and, therefore, cure renal cancer.