Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Localized Kidney Cancer

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is increasingly utilized in the management of localized kidney cancers, particularly for patients who are not surgical candidates. Herein, we provide a narrative review of SBRT in the management of localized kidney cancers.

Recent prospective studies and multi-institutional retrospective studies highlight the safety and efficacy of SBRT in the management of renal tumors, a disease previously thought to be radioresistant. Studies have shown that local control is greater than 90% with rare grade 3 or 4 toxicity and no grade 5 toxicity. SBRT can be utilized successfully in the treatment of large kidney tumors (> 5 cm). New techniques such as MRI-guided radiation therapy may further improve the therapeutic ratio. However, randomized clinical trials are necessary to confirm the optimal dosing schedule and compare outcomes with nephrectomy, which remains the standard of care in suitable patients. Advances in SBRT have made this modality a safe and effective treatment option in the management of localized kidney cancers.