Combination of an Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor and Immunotherapy as a Neoadjuvant Approach in Renal Cell Carcinoma With Associated Inferior Vena Cava Tumor Thrombus: A Single-Center Experience and Review of Literature

Abstract

Introduction: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has a predisposition to vascular invasion that manifest as an inferior vena cava tumor thrombus (IVC TT). Radical nephrectomy with an IVC thrombectomy is associated with high morbidity. We present our single-center experience on the neoadjuvant use of the combination of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) and immune check point inhibitor (IO) for patients with RCC with IVC TT. Patient and Methods: Five patients with RCC and associated IVC TT received a neoadjuvant combination anti-VEGF TKI and IO. The IVC TT reduction was evaluated. The extent of tumor thrombus was defined based on the Mayo Classification, and TT volume was measured by the largest anteroposterior diameter. The safety of therapy, perioperative outcome, and number of patients who were able to undergo definitive surgery are described. Results: Two (40%) had a reduction in IVC TT based on the Mayo Classification. Tumor thrombus volume reduction was seen in all patients (100%). Four of 5 patients (80%) were able to have surgery. Conclusion: The neoadjuvant combination of an anti-VEGF TKI and IO is effective in reducing the extent of IVC TT. Prospective research is needed to characterize the safety, and long-term outcomes of this approach.