From Greg Robbins, MD, MGH Infectious Disease Division, and John Clark, MD, MGH Cancer Center

WBZ Radio talk show host David Brudnoy was admitted to Massachusetts General Hospital Dec. 3 because of a recurrence of Merkel cell carcinoma, the disease that kept him off of the air last fall and winter while he underwent treatment. The cancer, which had been in remission until several weeks ago, has spread to his liver, affecting the functioning of that organ. As a consequence of the disease, his kidneys also are failing.

Because of the recurrence of cancer and the multi-organ failure, his condition is terminal. Mr. Brudnoy has asked that he receive only comfort care. He continues to be alert and is resting comfortably.

Merkel cell carcinoma is a very rare and highly aggressive form of skin cancer characterized by malignant cells that begin to form just beneath the skin and in hair follicles. This type of cancer grows rapidly and often spreads to other parts of the body.

Mr. Brudnoy has been treated at the MGH for HIV infection for more than a decade, and his immune system has steadily improved with the ongoing use of HIV medications. Merkel cell carcinoma is not related to HIV disease.

NOTE:

Mr. Brudnoy has asked the MGH on his behalf to express his deepest appreciation for the thoughts, words and gestures of kindness as well as the many cards and flowers he has received. He also has asked the hospital to remind his friends and listeners about the David Brudnoy Fund for AIDS Research, which he established a decade ago to help in the ongoing fight against HIV disease locally as well as internationally. For more information about the fund contact the MGH at (617) 726-2200.