Onconephrology, an extra year of training: Where do we stand?

Abstract

Onconephrology is a new subspecialty of nephrology that recognizes the important intersections of kidney disease with cancer. As novel anti cancers are being used to treat patients, we are beginning to see even more kidney-related complications that require close collaboration with hematology and oncology colleagues. Secondary to the increased number and complexity of onconephrology consultations spanning nephrology and oncology, there is a need to expand and focus clinical training in this area. Some authors propose an extra year of fellowship in onconephrology and others propose against extra year of fellowship. An “area of concentration” during the second year of fellowship with 6–9 months of dedicated time might be a solution for a trainee interested in onconephrology. To train the next generation of fellows, all centers should consider at least a local expert in onconephrology and specialty clinics to teach the necessary skills. The large stand-alone cancer centers can then enhance those skills for a specific group of fellows interested by offering an extra year of fellowship. In this editorial, we discuss the pros and cons of having an extra year of training in onconephrology.