Current Approaches in Surgical and Immunotherapy-Based Management of Renal Cell Carcinoma with Tumor Thrombus

Biology of renal cancer tumor thrombus - towards the personalized approach

Renal cell carcinoma - related thrombus arising within venous system (venous tumor thrombus, VTT) represents a distinct compartment within cancer, situated at the frontline with the continual interaction with host blood cells. Various host immune blood cells may possibly interact with VTT influencing its biology. While many authors have reviewed the current state-of-the-art of the management of VTT, its biology and microenvironment has not been comprehensively reviewed to date. In this narrative review, we described the current concepts on formation of thrombus, its histopathology, immune microenvironment, genetic and molecular features with potential impact on prognostication and tailored therapy. Although it is the sophisticated and challenging surgery that remains the primary modality in the management of RCC with VTT, recent advances in the research on cancer biology and microenvironment shed some light on the numerous future perspectives. The formation of tumor thrombus is a complex process, understanding of which may trigger onset of novel therapies leading to the improvement of not only oncological results but also patients' safety in these life-threatening conditions.

European Association of Urology Guidelines on Renal Cell Carcinoma: The 2025 Update

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The European Association of Urology (EAU) renal cell carcinoma (RCC) guideline panel has updated their evidence-based guidelines and recommendations for the management of RCC. Here we present a summary of the 2025 RCC guidelines updated with standardised methodology to provide reproducible evidence for the management of RCC.

METHODS

For the 2025 update, a literature search was performed covering the period from May 1, 2023 to May 1, 2024 using the Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Libraries. The data search focused on meta-analyses, systematic reviews, randomised controlled trials (RCTs), and retrospective or controlled comparator-arm studies. Evidence was synthesised as outlined for all EAU guidelines.

KEY FINDINGS AND LIMITATIONS

Clinical practise recommendations were updated in all chapters of the RCC guidelines on the basis of a structured literature search. The studies included were predominantly retrospective with matched or unmatched cohorts based on single- or multi-institutional data. Several prospective studies and RCTs provided data that resulted in recommendations based on higher levels of evidence. Specifically, updates include new recommendations on stereotactic body radiotherapy for localised RCC, adjuvant therapy, systemic therapy for clear-cell RCC in later lines, other subtypes, and a new chapter on hereditary RCC.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

The 2025 RCC guidelines have been updated by a multidisciplinary panel of experts using methodological standards to provide a contemporary evidence base for the management of RCC.

Racial Differences in Survival for Locally Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

African Americans with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) often have more aggressive tumors and worse outcomes compared to other racial groups. The impact of race on survival in locally advanced RCC with tumor thrombus and metastatic RCC (mRCC) remains unclear. This study evaluates racial disparities in survival among RCC patients with tumor thrombus.

METHODS

This IRB-approved retrospective study analyzed 11,520 RCC patients aged 18 to 80 with tumor thrombus who underwent nephrectomy (2010-2015) using the National Cancer Database. Demographic factors (age, sex, race/ethnicity) and clinical variables (tumor stage, grade, thrombus level, surgery type, comorbidities) were included. Statistical analyses utilized Kaplan-Meier curves, Cox proportional hazards, and multinomial logistic regression, with significance set at P < .05.

RESULTS

African Americans (6% of patients) had a 22% higher overall mortality hazard (HR: 1.22, P < .001) and 24% higher hazard in metastatic RCC (HR: 1.24, P = .019) compared to non-Hispanic Whites (83%). Five-year survival rates for advanced thrombus levels (I-IV) were comparable between races. Overall mortality was 55%, rising to 82% in metastatic cases.

CONCLUSION

Among patients with RCC and tumor thrombus, African American patients face 22% higher mortality hazard compared to non-Hispanic white patients. They often present with more locally advanced disease and mRCC. The mortality hazard for metastatic RCC is increased by 24% among African Americans compared to Caucasians. The results highlight the demographic impact of race and supports clinical consideration when managing African American patients.

Utilization of cardiopulmonary bypass at radical nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma with tumour thrombus

Objectives

The objective of this study is to evaluate preoperative factors associated with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) utilization and outcomes for patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and tumour thrombus (TT). Radical nephrectomy with thrombectomy is a standard treatment for patients with RCC and associated TT. Morbidity and mortality rates tend to correlate with aggressiveness of tumour and TT level.

Methods

Patients undergoing radical nephrectomy with thrombectomy (2006-2023) were retrospectively identified. Inclusion criteria included RCC histology and preoperative imaging available for thrombus-level categorization based on the Mayo Clinic grading system. Logistic regression assessed predictors for utilizing CPB, and Cox regression identified factors associated with survival.

Results

A total of 72 patients with RCC and associated TT were identified. The median age was 67 years. RCC-related symptoms were present in 83%, and 28% had Levels 3 and 4 thrombi. Eleven patients (15.3%) had undergone neoadjuvant therapy, and 81% had clear-cell RCC. CPB was utilized in eight (11.1%) cases. The median tumour size was 10.5 cm. Metastatic disease was greater in the CPB cohort (75% vs. 28%, p = 0.008). All cases performed on CPB were Levels 3 and 4 thrombi (100% vs. 19% in the non-CPB group, p < 0.001). CPB cases had significantly longer operative time, and hospital stays and rates of Clavien ≥ 3 complications. On multivariate analysis, metastatic disease was a predictor of CPB utilization. Median survival was 74 and 25 months in the non-CPB and CPB cohorts, respectively (p = 0.01). Pulmonary disease and metastatic disease with CPB utilization were significantly associated with worse survival on multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Surgical extirpation of kidney tumours with associated TT remains the standard of care among patients with locally advanced RCC. CPB can be utilized to increase the feasibility of resection for high-level thrombi. Preoperative planning and cooperation among surgical teams are key given the perioperative morbidity and mortality.

Bibliometric analysis of renal cell carcinoma with venous tumor thrombus

Objectives: To identify the cooperation of authors, countries, institutions and explore the hot spots regarding research of renal cell carcinoma with venous tumor thrombus. Methods: Relevant articles were obtained from the Web of Science Core database (WoSC) from 1999 to 2024. CiteSpace was used to perform the analysis and visualization of scientific productivity and emerging trends. Network maps were generated to evaluate the collaborations between different authors, countries, institutions, and keywords. Results: A total of 2180 related articles were identified. We observed an increased enthusiasm in related fields during the past two decades. The USA dominated the field in all countries, and the University of Miami was the core institution. Ciancio G might have a significant influence with more publications and co-citations. Current research hotspots in this field mainly included thrombectomy, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, vena cava inferior, and microvascular invasion. Thrombectomy complications, thrombectomy survival outcome, and preoperative neoadjuvant immunotherapy represented the frontiers of research in this field, undergoing an explosive phase. Conclusion: This is the first bibliometric study that comprehensively visualize the research trends and status of RCC with VTT. We hope that this work will provide new ideas for advancing the scientific research and clinical application.

Renal cell carcinoma with massive cavo-atrial tumor thrombus leading to pulmonary embolism: Case study and literature review

INTRODUCTION

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) occasionally involves the inferior vena cava (IVC), but intra-atrial extension is very rare, with the most dreaded complication being thrombi migration into pulmonary arteries.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 52-year-old male with rheumatoid arthritis and a smoking history presented with dyspnea, weight loss, and a previous episode of hematuria. Echocardiography revealed an intra-atrial thrombus with signs of pulmonary embolism (PE). Subsequent evaluation found a massive right renal tumor with an extensive thrombus extending into the right atrium, causing PE. Multidisciplinary management included surgery involving nephrectomy and thrombectomy via cavotomy and open-heart surgery along with pre- and postoperative anticoagulation.

DISCUSSION

Intra-caval tumor thrombus (TT) in RCC is infrequent, especially when extending into the right atrium. Accurate diagnosis involves imaging modalities, with echocardiography and MRI playing pivotal roles. Multidisciplinary and personalized management is mandatory to ensure a successful outcome. Surgery remains the primary treatment for RCC with TT but carries significant risks.

CONCLUSION

Managing RCC with cavo-atrial tumor thrombus is a complex situation that requires a collaborative approach. Accurate staging and tailored treatment are crucial. Surgical intervention remains pivotal in the absence of alternative effective modalities. Ongoing research into adjuvant therapies is crucial for optimal outcomes.

Management of Renal Cell Carcinoma With Supradiaphragmatic Inferior Vena Cava Thrombus Diagnosed During Acute COVID-19 Infection

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) tends to undergo intravascular tumor growth along the renal vein, forming tumor thrombi that may extend into the inferior vena cava (IVC) or even the right atrium (Level IV). Managing such cases requires a multidisciplinary approach, especially in patients with acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, who face increased risks from surgical interventions. We present a case of RCC with Level IV thrombus and concurrent COVID-19 managed with systemic therapy. We also summarize current literature on treating RCC with IVC thrombus and COVID-19's impact on prognosis. The patient was a 70-year-old female with incidental detection of a 9-cm right heterogeneous renal mass with a supradiaphragmatic tumor thrombus during COVID-19 infection. Due to ongoing pulmonary symptoms, systemic therapy with a combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab was initiated. After an excellent initial response, the patient continued systemic therapy, maintaining a necrotic response in the renal mass and tumor thrombus. The patient continues to tolerate systemic therapy well. We report a rare case of RCC with Level IV tumor thrombus and synchronous acute COVID-19 infection. Our report depicts successful management utilizing systemic therapy with a combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab. The management of such cases necessitates a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach, considering the risks associated with surgery in the context of recent COVID-19 infection. The case presentation and ensuing literature discussion of the dynamic landscape of RCC management highlights the need for more research to improve treatment plans and guide clinicians in handling such complex situations.

Construction of the prognostic model in non-metastatic renal cancer patients with venous tumor thrombus

Background

Venous system invasion is a prominent characteristic of local progression in renal cancer and treatment-naïve renal cancer patients with venous tumor thrombus (VTT) gained short natural course and poor prognosis. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of the surgery and prognostic factors in non-metastatic renal cancer patients with VTT and to construct a nomogram prognostic model.

Methods

Clinical data of 114 non-metastatic renal cancer patients with VTT who underwent surgical treatment from January 2011 to September 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. In order to find independent risk factors of prognosis, survival analysis was performed via univariate and multivariate Cox regression models and Kaplan-Meier method. Nomogram prognostic model was established to calculate patients' risk scores. Receiver operating characteristic curve and decision curve analysis were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of the prognostic model.

Results

A total of 114 patients were included in this study and there were 48, 12, 25, 23, and 6 cases of grade 0-IV VTT. No perioperative death occurred. The 3-year probabilities of overall survival (OS) and 5-year probabilities of OS were 67% and 43.8%, respectively. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that kidney tumor diameter, preoperative lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and preoperative neutrophils were independent risk factors. Nomogram was constructed to predict prognosis in renal cancer patients with VTT based on above indicators and Mayo VTT grading. The area under the ROC curve of 1-, 2-, 3-, and 5-year OS of the patients were 0.82, 0.67, 0.57, and 0.55 respectively.

Conclusions

Surgical treatment enables renal cancer patients with VTT to gain a better prognosis. Kidney tumor diameter, preoperative LDH, and preoperative neutrophils were independent risk factors. The nomogram perfects the Mayo grading, and provides a reliable reference for evaluation of prognosis of renal cancer patients with VTT.

Based on disulfidptosis, revealing the prognostic and immunological characteristics of renal cell carcinoma with tumor thrombus of vena cava and identifying potential therapeutic target AJAP1

BACKGROUND

Patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) with venous tumor thrombus have a poor prognosis, high surgical risk, and lack of targeted therapeutic agents.

METHODS

Genes with consistent differential expression trends in tumor tissues and VTT groups were first screened, and then differential genes associated with disulfidptosis were found by correlation analysis. Subsequently, identifying ccRCC subtypes and constructing risk models to compare the differences in prognosis and the tumor microenvironment in different subgroups. Finally, constructing a nomogram to predict the prognosis of ccRCC and validate key gene expression levels in cells and tissues.

RESULTS

We screened 35 differential genes related to disulfidptosis and identified 4 ccRCC subtypes. Risk models were constructed based on the 13 genes, and the high-risk group had a higher abundance of immune cell infiltration, tumor mutational load, and microsatellite instability scores, predicting high sensitivity to immunotherapy. The 1-year AUC = 0.869 for predicting OS by nomogram has a high application value. The expression level of the key gene AJAP1 was low in both tumor cell lines and cancer tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study not only constructed an accurate prognostic nomogram for ccRCC patients but also identified an AJAP1 biomarker as a potential biomarker for the disease.

The Role of the Cardiac Biomarkers in the Renal Cell Carcinoma Multidisciplinary Management

Renal cell carcinoma, an aggressive malignancy, is often incidentally diagnosed. The patient remains asymptomatic to the late stage of the disease, when the local or distant metastases are already present. Surgical treatment remains the choice for these patients, although the plan must adapt to the characteristics of the patients and the extension of the neoplasm. Systemic therapy is sometimes needed. It includes immunotherapy, target therapy, or both, with a high level of toxicity. Cardiac biomarkers have prognosis and monitoring values in this setting. Their role in postoperative identification of myocardial injury and heart failure already have been demonstrated, as well as their importance in preoperative evaluation from the cardiac point of view and the progression of renal cancer. The cardiac biomarkers are also part of the new cardio-oncologic approach to establishing and monitoring systemic therapy. They are complementary tests for assessment of the baseline toxicity risk and tools to guide therapy. The goal must be to continue the treatment as long as possible with the initiation and optimisation of the cardiological treatment. Cardiac atrial biomarkers are reported to have also antitumoral and anti-inflammatory properties. This review aims to present the role of cardiac biomarkers in the multidisciplinary management of renal cell carcinoma patients.