What is Von Hippel-Lindau Disease?

Eric Jonasch, MD, Professor, Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology at MD Anderson Cancer Center, gives an overview of von Hippel-Lindau disease.

As Dr. Jonasch explains, von Hippel-Lindau disease is a genetic disease characterized by the formation of tumors and cysts in many different parts of the body. The condition is due to mutations in the VHL gene. The most common symptom of von Hippel-Lindau disease is hemangioblastomas. People with von Hippel-Lindau disease are also at increased risk for developing other cancers, including renal cell carcinoma.

Currently, there is no approved treatment for von Hippel-Lindau. Interventions may include operation, ablation, laser treatment, and radiation depending on where and how big the hemangioblastomas are.

For more information about Von Hippel-Lindau disease and other rare cancers, visit checkrare.com/diseases/cancers/