Final results from the large sunitinib global expanded-access trial in metastatic renal cell carcinoma

M E Gore1, C Szczylik2, C Porta3

  • 1Royal Marsden Hospital NHS Trust, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JJ, UK.

Abstract

Insights

Sunitinib demonstrated consistent efficacy and safety in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) patients during an expanded-access trial. Long-term follow-up confirmed these findings, providing valuable data for this tyrosine kinase inhibitor.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

  • Expanded-access trial of sunitinib for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) patients ineligible for registration trials.
  • Global trial providing pre-regulatory approval access to sunitinib.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Report final results with extended follow-up.
  • Evaluate long-term side effects of sunitinib in mRCC.

Main Methods:

  • 4543 patients received oral sunitinib (50 mg/day, 4-weeks-on-2-weeks-off).
  • Safety assessed regularly; tumor measurements per local practice.
  • Extended follow-up for long-term data collection.

Main Results:

  • Objective response rate: 16%. Median progression-free survival (PFS): 9.4 months. Median overall survival (OS): 18.7 months.
  • Subgroup PFS varied: 10.1 months (age ≥65), 3.5 months (ECOG PS ≥2), 6.0 months (non-clear cell), 5.3 months (brain metastases).
  • Common grade 3/4 adverse events: thrombocytopenia (10%), fatigue (9%), asthenia, neutropenia, hand-foot syndrome (7% each). OS associated with IMDC prognostic model.

Conclusions:

  • Final analysis confirms consistent efficacy and safety of sunitinib in mRCC.
  • Extended follow-up provides valuable long-term safety data for this tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
  • Findings align with previous trial results, supporting worldwide use in mRCC.