El Centro Mayor Sylvia Marroquin achieved a complete imaging response after participating in a clinical trial at UC San Diego Health's Moores Cancer Center for Stage IV kidney cancer. The trial, coordinated through the National Cancer Institute, combined standard immunotherapy with a novel oral drug, offering a potential new treatment avenue for patients with advanced kidney cancer. Marroquin's journey underscores the importance of clinical trials and access to comprehensive cancer care.
Diagnosis and Initial Treatment
Marroquin's journey began in 2021 when she experienced chronic back pain, leading to the discovery of a tumor on her right kidney. Initially diagnosed with Stage 1 kidney cancer, she underwent a partial nephrectomy at UC San Diego Health, performed by Dr. Ithaar Derweesh. "We removed an approximately six-centimeter tumor from Sylvia’s right kidney, as well as about a third of the kidney using a robotic-assisted, minimally invasive approach," said Derweesh.
Recurrence and Enrollment in Clinical Trial
Despite the initial success, a follow-up scan revealed the cancer had returned and metastasized to her right kidney, liver, and lungs, progressing to Stage IV. Marroquin then consulted with Dr. Rana McKay, who recommended enrollment in a clinical trial. The trial compared the standard immunotherapy treatment alone versus immunotherapy combined with a novel oral drug.
Complete Response and Impact
After approximately two years on the trial, Marroquin experienced a complete imaging response, indicating no evidence of cancer. "I could not believe the drastic result of my treatment. I consider it a miracle," Marroquin stated. Dr. McKay noted that only about 10% of patients with kidney cancer achieve a complete response, highlighting the significance of Marroquin's outcome.
The Role of Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy has emerged as a standard of care for kidney cancer, harnessing the body's immune system to fight the disease. The clinical trial Marroquin participated in explored the potential benefits of combining immunotherapy with a novel oral drug, potentially enhancing the treatment's effectiveness.
Importance of Clinical Trials
Dr. Diane Simeone, director of Moores Cancer Center, emphasized the importance of clinical trials in offering new treatment options for patients. "Clinical trials are a beacon of possibilities and offer new treatments for patients who may have few options," said Simeone. Marroquin's experience underscores this, demonstrating how participation in a clinical trial can lead to remarkable outcomes and contribute to advancing cancer research.
Side Effects and Resilience
Marroquin did experience side effects during the trial, including sores on her feet, which required adjustments to her medication. Despite these challenges, she continued to fulfill her duties as a city council member and later as mayor of El Centro. "I did not realize how sick I really was until after my treatment," Marroquin reflected.
Looking Ahead
Marroquin is now using her experience to raise awareness about kidney cancer and the importance of clinical trials. She shared her story at a Clinical Trials Patient Appreciation Day at Moores Cancer Center, expressing gratitude to her healthcare team and encouraging other patients to explore their care options. Her journey exemplifies the potential of innovative treatments and the resilience of patients facing advanced cancer.
