Medical treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma

Thirty five patients with metastatic RCC were observed over a 57 months period in our Division of Radiotherapy and Medical Oncology, and 30 are evaluable for this analysis. MPA was selected as primary treatment agent in 23 patients, VLB singly, in combination with MPA or in combination with CCNU was used in 1.4 and 2 patients. With MPA the TR rate was 3/23 (1 CR and 2 PR). Duration of response for the patient with CR was 6 months whereas for the patients with PR was 21 and 14 months respectively. 4 additional patients showed NC. With VLB-MPA the TR rate was 1/+ (1 PR). Duration of PR was 3 months. The median duration of survival for the 11 patients with CR, PR and NC was 14 months whereas for the 19 patients with NR was 7 months (p < 0.01). TES and TAM showed no or minimal activity as second treatment agents.