[Renal cell carcinoma--diagnostic and therapeutic--update]

In this paper we review the recent advances for the diagnosis and the management of renal cell carcinoma. Urine tests, genetics and modification of the TNM system help for the diagnosis. Multifocality and microvascular venous invasion are interesting prognostic factors. Recent prospective studies gave important informations on lymph node dissection and the role of surgery in metastatic disease. New surgical tools are in development and new approaches in medical treatment too.