The role of rational immunotherapy for renal cell carcinoma

Abstract

Metastases to distant organs are the principal cause of death from renal cell carcinoma (RCC). No commonly accepted therapy is available for disseminated RCC at present. The rationale for immunotherapy of RCC is based on the fact that there is no other therapy for advanced cases. Biologic therapies are the only current treatment modalities that have produced promising therapeutic results in metastatic RCC (mRCC). Therapy with cytokines usually has typical and sometimes severe side effects. Response rates and toxicity were higher with combined therapy. The administration of cytokines that augment the function of the immune system can be accomplished safely and without toxicity, provided a rational approach is used. The toxic effects that are frequently observed with combined therapy emphasize the need for careful selection of patients.