Radiation therapy options in kidney cancer

Abstract

Purpose of review In this review, the authors discuss the use of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for the treatment of primary and metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Recent findings For primary RCC treated with SBRT, local control is estimated at >95%, and grade 3–4 toxicity is limited at ≤5%. The difference in glomerular filtration rate pretreatment versus posttreatment was about 7.7 ml/min. For metastatic RCC treated with SBRT, the 1-year local control is ~90%. The incidence of any grade 3–4 toxicity is ~1%. Several ongoing trials are evaluating SBRT in combination or in lieu of systemic therapy. There are many unknowns remaining in the treatment of RCC, including tumor prognostication, treatment selection, and treatment delivery. Summary Stereotactic body radiation therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with primary and metastatic RCC.