Improving Prediction of Recurrence Risk in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma

Oncologists use clinical and pathological parameters to determine the likelihood of tumor recurrence after nephrectomy in localized clear cell renal cell carcinoma. These assessments can be improved by targeting the molecular characteristics of patients’ tumors, says Brian Rini, MD, of Cleveland Clinic’s Department of Solid Tumor Oncology.

In a recent study, Dr. Rini and colleagues report their efforts to develop and validate a multigene signature to improve recurrence prediction. The researchers analyzed 732 genes expressed in 942 patients with stage I to stage III clear cell renal carcinoma who underwent nephrectomy, looking for associations with clinical outcomes. Eleven genes associated with recurrence-free intervals and five reference genes served as the basis for a recurrence score algorithm. The researchers then confirmed the recurrence score as an accurate predictor of clinical outcome.

Read the HemOnc Today article with Dr. Rini.