Data from 372 people with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) were used in a retrospective study to look at the risk factors for the development of bone metastases. Of the 372 people investigated, 38 developed bone metastases. Analysis of blood samples showed that high levels of a protein called alkaline phosphatase, high levels of calcium and low levels of haemoglobin in the blood were independent risk factors for bone metastases.

The researchers recommend intensive monitoring and bone scanning for newly diagnosed patients with high levels of alkaline phosphatase and calcium and low levels of haemoglobin in their blood.

Read the article in Practice Update here