Sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma: Biology and treatment advances

Nemer El Mouallem; Steven C Smith; Asit K Paul

doi:10.1016/j.urolonc.2017.12.012

Sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma: Biology and treatment advances

Urol Oncol. 2018 Jun;36(6):265-271. doi: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2017.12.012. Epub 2018 Jan 3.

Authors

Nemer El Mouallem¹, Steven C Smith², Asit K Paul³

Affiliations

¹ Division of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Massey Cancer Center, VCU Medical Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA.
² Department of Pathology, Massey Cancer Center, VCU Medical Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA.
³ Division of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Massey Cancer Center, VCU Medical Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA. Electronic address: asit.paul@vcuhealth.org.

PMID: 29306556
DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2017.12.012

Abstract

Sarcomatoid transformation in renal cell carcinoma, so called sacromatoid RCC (sRCC), is associated with an aggressive behavior and a poor prognosis. Current therapeutic approaches are largely ineffective. Recent studies looking into the genomic and molecular characterization of sRCCs have provided insights into the biology and pathogenesis of this entity. These advances in molecular signatures may help development of effective treatment strategies. We herein present a review of recent developments in the pathology, biology, and treatment modalities in sRCC.

Keywords: Chemotherapy; Immunotherapy; Nephrectomy; Renal cell carcinoma; Sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma; Targeted therapy.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Carcinoma, Renal Cell / pathology*
Carcinoma, Renal Cell / therapy*
Humans
Kidney Neoplasms / pathology*
Kidney Neoplasms / therapy*
Sarcoma / pathology*
Sarcoma / therapy*
Treatment Outcome