Cytoreductive nephrectomy (CN) was regarded standard of care for patients with metastatic renal cellcarcinoma (mRCC) in the cytokine era.
After the introduction of therapies targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways, improved median survival and primary tumor responses are observed. Prognostic models have been validated and the clinical significance of tumor heterogeneity and histological subtypes has been recognized. These changes in the understanding and treatment of mRCC require assessment of CN. This review discusses the original context in which the efficacy of CN was established and the advances in treatment that have changed that context. Potential refinements in the use of CN that may reduce overall morbidity by limiting its use to those most likely to benefit are reviewed.
Written by:
La Rochelle J, Wood C, Bex A. Are you the author?
Department of Urology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
Reference: Semin Oncol. 2013 Aug;40(4):429-35.
doi: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2013.05.007
PubMed Abstract
PMID: 23972706
UroToday.com Renal Cancer Section
