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Landmarks in the diagnosis and treatment of renal cell carcinoma

Nature Reviews Urology volume 11, pages 517–525 (2014)Cite this article

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Abstract

The most common renal cancer is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which arises from the renal parenchyma. The global incidence of RCC has increased over the past two decades by 2% per year. RCC is the most lethal of the common urological cancers: despite diagnostic advances, 20–30% of patients present with metastatic disease. A clearer understanding of the genetic basis of RCC has led to immune-based and targeted treatments for this chemoresistant cancer. Despite promising results in advanced disease, overall response rates and durable complete responses are rare. Surgery remains the main treatment modality, especially for organ-confined disease, with a selective role in advanced and metastatic disease. Smaller tumours are increasingly managed with biopsy, minimally invasive interventions and surveillance. The future promises multimodal, integrated and personalized care, with further understanding of the disease leading to new treatment options.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Urology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University of Toronto, 610 University Avenue 3-130, Toronto, M5G 2M9, ON, Canada

    Jaimin R. Bhatt & Antonio Finelli

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J.R.B. researched the data for the article. Both authors provided substantial contributions to discussions of the content. J.R.B. wrote the article. Both authors contributed to review and/or editing of the manuscript before submission.

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Correspondence to Antonio Finelli.

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Bhatt, J., Finelli, A. Landmarks in the diagnosis and treatment of renal cell carcinoma. Nat Rev Urol 11, 517–525 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrurol.2014.194

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