[Systemic therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma]

M W Kramer1, S Steffens, C von Klot

  • 1Klinik für Urologie und Urologische Onkologie Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Germany.

Aktuelle Urologie
|August 8, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Targeted therapies, including tyrosine kinase (TK) and mTOR inhibitors, have replaced cytokine-based treatments for advanced renal cell carcinoma. This review covers current first- and second-line systemic therapies and sequential treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Advances in understanding renal cell carcinoma (RCC) pathogenesis and prognosis.
  • Shift from cytokine-based therapies to targeted agents for metastatic RCC.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current state of systemic therapy for renal cell carcinoma.
  • To discuss first- and second-line treatment options.
  • To explore sequential therapy and side effect management.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent advancements in RCC systemic therapy.
  • Analysis of targeted therapeutic agents, including tyrosine kinase (TK) and mTOR inhibitors.
  • Discussion of clinical trial data and treatment guidelines.

Main Results:

  • Targeted therapies (TK and mTOR inhibitors) are now standard for advanced RCC.
  • Established efficacy of specific agents in first- and second-line settings.
  • Growing importance of sequential treatment strategies to optimize outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Systemic therapy for advanced renal cell carcinoma has been revolutionized by targeted agents.
  • Optimal sequencing of therapies is crucial for maximizing patient benefit.
  • Consideration of side effect profiles is essential for effective treatment plans.

Related Concept Videos

Treatment Resistant Cancers02:56

Treatment Resistant Cancers

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. A cancer cell is genetically unstable and hence can mutate faster. They can also modify their microenvironment and escape immune surveillance. The difficulties in treating cancer are further compounded by the emergence of rapid resistance to anticancer drugs. The most common ways to attain resistance in cancer cells include alteration in drug transport and metabolism, modification of drug target, elevated DNA damage response, or...
Targeted Cancer Therapies02:57

Targeted Cancer Therapies

The targeted cancer therapies, also known as “molecular targeted therapies,” take advantage of the molecular and genetic differences between the cancer cells and the normal cells. It needs a thorough understanding of the cancer cells to develop drugs that can target specific molecular aspects that drive the growth, progression, and spread of cancer cells without affecting the growth and survival of other normal cells in the body.
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...