Axitinib in metastatic renal cell carcinoma: patient characteristics and treatment patterns in US community oncology centers

Abstract

Aim: To study patient characteristics and treatment patterns in real-world axitinib use for metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Patients & methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of second- or third-line axitinib use between 1 January 2012 and 31 October 2014 in 135 metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients using the US Oncology Network database. Results: Overall, 86.7% had clear cell histology, 57.8% had stage III/IV disease at diagnosis and 55.6% were poor risk by Heng criteria. Median treatment duration was 4.6 months (range: 0.03–35.49); 80.7% initiated axitinib at 5 mg/day twice daily, and 67.4% maintained this dose. Overall, 77.8% discontinued treatment, mainly due to disease progression (50.5%) and toxicity (21.9%). Conclusion: Axitinib usage patterns were consistent with the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines®. Ease of use among community oncologists and patient tolerance are key features of axitinib.