Renal cell carcinoma

Complete surgical resection of renal cell cancer confined to the kidney offers a hopeful prognosis of long-term remission or cure. Metastatic renal cell cancer is not effectively managed through the traditional modalities of surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, or radiation therapy. Quantum leaps in the understanding of immunobiology and molecular genetics, as well as the elucidation and application of biologic response modifiers, have created a climate of renewed enthusiasm for defining more active regimens for the management of metastatic renal cell cancer. As long-term remission and cure are highly unlikely for the majority of individuals presenting with advanced disease, attention to quality of life issues such as symptom control, cost containment, and honesty is appropriate. In diseases such as metastatic renal cell cancer where no effective standard of therapy has been demonstrated, participation in well-designed, carefully executed clinical trials with adequate reimbursement is encouraged for all eligible candidates. Individuals challenged with living with metastatic kidney cancer are aware of the gradual or precipitous nature of their declining process and generally do not harbor unrealistic hope for longterm survival. However, pain relief and comfort are reasonable hopes, and striving for and attaining an optimal quality of life will sustain both the individual and caregiver.