Checkpoint Blockade - a New Treatment Paradigm in Renal Cell Carcinoma

Nivolumab is the first checkpoint inhibitor for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which is in line for approval in Europe. Despite its novelty in the treatment algorithm of RCC, it offers a whole new strategy of therapy management with safe applicability. The aim of this work was to review current data on checkpoint inhibitors in RCC and discuss future perspectives for this novel approach in RCC. A selective literature search was performed in the Pubmed database: Nivolumab is a first-in-class agent for the treatment of RCC, and its European label is anticipated for 2016. Contrary to many other agents, nivolumab was able to show a benefit in overall survival and health-related quality of life when compared to everolimus. Current trials focus on optimizing and expanding its use to metastatic RCC. In conclusion, nivolumab has already acquired a role in the treatment algorithm of RCC. However, which patient population derives the most benefit as well its optimal use in the treatment algorithm remain to be determined. A number of ongoing trials will provide novel insights and might help to untangle this novel network of therapy management for immunotherapies.