Case presentation: In this case, we demonstrate how a small radiolucency in the proximal humerus can progress to an even larger problem within a few months in a patient without follow-up. Our patient's ultimate diagnosis was renal cell carcinoma with metastasis to the right proximal humerus, completely obliterating the affected bone.
Discussion: In many underserved communities, patients have limited access to medical care, particularly specialty care. These patients often present to the emergency department and are unable to acquire appropriate follow-up. This situation illustrates the social issues that our patients face every day affecting their access to healthcare and ultimately necessary medical treatment.