Treatment of Renal Cell Carcinoma in Von Hippel-Lindau Disease: A Multicenter Study

Advances in Molecular Mechanisms of Kidney Disease: Integrating Renal Tumorigenesis of Hereditary Cancer Syndrome

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) comprises various histologically distinct subtypes, each characterized by specific genetic alterations, necessitating individualized management and treatment strategies for each subtype. An exhaustive search of the PubMed database was conducted without any filters or restrictions. Inclusion criteria encompassed original English articles focusing on molecular mechanisms of kidney cancer. On the other hand, all non-original articles and articles published in any language other than English were excluded. Hereditary kidney cancer represents 5-8% of all kidney cancer cases and is associated with syndromes such as von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, Birt-Hogg-Dubè syndrome, succinate dehydrogenase-deficient renal cell cancer syndrome, tuberous sclerosis complex, hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma, fumarate hydratase deficiency syndrome, BAP1 tumor predisposition syndrome, and other uncommon hereditary cancer syndromes. These conditions are characterized by distinct genetic mutations and related extra-renal symptoms. The majority of renal cell carcinoma predispositions stem from loss-of-function mutations in tumor suppressor genes. These mutations promote malignant advancement through the somatic inactivation of the remaining allele. This review aims to elucidate the main molecular mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of major syndromes associated with renal cell carcinoma. By providing a comprehensive overview, it aims to facilitate early diagnosis and to highlight the principal therapeutic options available.

Outcomes of and indications for renal transplantation in patients with von Hippel Lindau disease

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) is a hereditary cancer syndrome characterized by bilateral, multifocal renal masses. The cumulative impact of extirpative surgery can depreciate renal function and render patients anephric. In the larger end-stage renal disease population, renal transplant offers both excellent quality of life and functional renal replacement. This case control study aims to examine and compare oncologic and functional outcomes of patients who have undergone renal transplant as renal replacement therapy (RRT) to those who remain anephric.

METHODS

Patient charts were retrospectively reviewed of patients with germline testing confirmed VHL between 1980 and 2022 for transplant, all prior surgical history (within and outside the NCI), renal function and graft outcomes. Overall survival (OS) was determined from years after radical nephrectomy, and graft time was defined as years of graft function from initial transplant until failure or patient death. Graft survival was determined as time between transplant(s) to last follow up. Kaplan-Meier analysis was conducted to compare graft times of anephric VHL patients to those with transplanted kidneys.

RESULTS

A total of 23 VHLD patients were identified as either anephric or candidates for transplant. Out of this cohort, 11 total VHLD received 12 total kidney grafts. Median wait time from nephrectomy to transplant was 22.6 months (IQR: 1.02-40.25 months). Median age at transplant was 32 years (IQR: 23-54 years). OS at 5 and 10 years of anephric patients who did not receive a transplant was 33% and 16.7%, respectively. OS rates of the transplant cohort at 10, 15, and 20 years were 91%, 78%, and 58% years, respectively. Median graft time was 161 months (IQR: 56-214 months). Graft survival at 10, 15, and 20 years was 69.8%, 69.8%, and 26.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate that transplant recipients have decreased mortality with no difference in cancer recurrence compared to those who do not receive renal transplant for RRT. This data can aid in informing providers of the optimal window for early RRT planning in VHL, while also improving patient counseling.

Challenges in Von Hippel-Lindau's disease: PRRT in patients on hemodialysis

Summary

Von Hippel-Lindau's disease (VHL) is a hereditary tumor syndrome characterized by its prototype lesions, hemangioblastomas, and renal cell carcinomas. Treatment for renal cell carcinomas can ultimately result in long-term dialysis. Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) can also occur in the course of the disease. Currently, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) is the standard treatment for progressive neuroendocrine tumors. However, little is known about treatment with PRRT in patients on dialysis, an infrequent presentation in patients with VHL. We present a 72-year-old man with VHL on hemodialysis and a progressive pNET. He received four cycles of PRRT with a reduced dose. Only mild thrombopenia was seen during treatments. The patient died 9 months after the last PRRT because of acute bleeding in a hemangioblastoma. Hemodialysis is not a limiting factor for PRRT treatment and it should be considered as it seems a safe short-term treatment option for this specific group.

Learning points

Von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL) is a complex disease in which former interventions can limit optimal treatment for following VHL-related tumors later in life. Metastasized pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors occur as part of VHL disease. Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy seems a safe short-term treatment option in patients on hemodialysis.

von Hippel-Lindau Disease: an Update

Purpose of Review

In this review, we discuss the key molecular and clinical developments in VHL disease that have the potential to impact on the natural history of the disease and improve patient outcomes.

Recent Findings

Identifiable mutations in VHL underlie most cases of VHL and define clear genotype-phenotype correlations. Detailed clinical and molecular characterisation has allowed the implementation of lifelong screening programmes that have improved clinical outcomes. Functional characterisation of the VHL protein complex has revealed its role in oxygen sensing and the mechanisms of tumourigenesis that are now being exploited to develop novel therapies for VHL and renal cancer.

Summary

The molecular and cellular landscape of VHL-associated tumours is revealing new opportunities to modify the natural history of the disease and develop therapies. Drugs are now entering clinical trials and combined with improved clinical and molecular diagnosis, and lifelong surveillance programmes, further progress towards reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with VHL disease is anticipated.

Growth characteristics and therapeutic decision markers in von Hippel-Lindau disease patients with renal cell carcinoma

Background

Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is a multi-systemic hereditary disease associated with several benign and malignant tumor entities, including clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Since ccRCCs grow slowly, nephron sparing surgery is typically performed at a tumor diameter of 3–4 cm before the tumor metastasizes. However, in the case of recurrent disease, repeated surgical intervention can impair renal function. Therefore, it is crucial to optimize the timing for surgical interventions through a better understanding of the growth kinetics of ccRCCs in VHL. We investigated tumor growth kinetics and modern volumetric assessment to guide future therapeutic decisions.

Results

The prevalence of ccRCC was 28% in a cohort of 510 VHL patients. Of 144 patients with ccRCC, 41 were followed with serial imaging which identified 102 renal tumors, which exhibited heterogeneous growth kinetics. ccRCCs grew at an average absolute growth rate of 0.287 cm/year, an average relative growth rate [(lnV₁-lnV₀)/(t₁-t₀)] of 0.42% and an average volume doubling time of 27.15 months. Women had a faster relative growth rate than men. Age and specific mutations did not influence tumor growth. Because of the tumor heterogeneity, we developed an additional cut-off volume of 40 cm³ for surgical intervention.

Conclusions

Tumor heterogeneity and differences in growth kinetics is suggestive of a state of transient tumor dormancy in ccRCCs of VHL patients. The relative growth rate has not been previously described in other studies. Volumetric assessment as an additional parameter for surgical intervention could be a useful clinical tool and needs further investigation.

Early and late adverse renal effects after potentially nephrotoxic treatment for childhood cancer

BACKGROUND

Improvements in diagnostics and treatment for paediatric malignancies resulted in a major increase in survival. However, childhood cancer survivors (CCS) are at risk of developing adverse effects caused by multimodal treatment for their malignancy. Nephrotoxicity is a known side effect of several treatments, including cisplatin, carboplatin, ifosfamide, radiotherapy and nephrectomy, and can cause glomerular filtration rate (GFR) impairment, proteinuria, tubulopathy, and hypertension. Evidence about the long-term effects of these treatments on renal function remains inconclusive. It is important to know the risk of, and risk factors for, early and late adverse renal effects, so that ultimately treatment and screening protocols can be adjusted. This review is an update of a previously published Cochrane Review.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate existing evidence on the effects of potentially nephrotoxic treatment modalities on the prevalence of renal dysfunction in survivors treated for childhood cancer with a median or mean survival of at least one year after cessation of treatment, where possible in comparison with the general population or CCS treated without potentially nephrotoxic treatment. In addition, to evaluate evidence on associated risk factors, such as follow-up duration, age at time of diagnosis and treatment combinations, as well as the effect of doses.

SEARCH METHODS

On 31 March 2017 we searched the following electronic databases: CENTRAL, MEDLINE and Embase. In addition, we screened reference lists of relevant studies and we searched the congress proceedings of the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) and The American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology (ASPHO) from 2010 to 2016/2017.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Except for case reports, case series and studies including fewer than 20 participants, we included studies with all study designs that reported on renal function (one year or longer after cessation of treatment), in CCS treated before the age of 21 years with cisplatin, carboplatin, ifosfamide, radiation involving the kidney region, a nephrectomy, or a combination of two or more of these treatments. When not all treatment modalities were described or the study group of interest was unclear, a study was not eligible for the evaluation of prevalence. We still included it for the assessment of risk factors if it had performed a multivariable analysis.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently performed study selection, 'Risk of bias' assessment and data extraction using standardised data collection forms. We performed analyses according to the guidelines of the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions.

MAIN RESULTS

Apart from the remaining 37 studies included from the original review, the search resulted in the inclusion of 24 new studies. In total, we included 61 studies; 46 for prevalence, six for both prevalence and risk factors, and nine not meeting the inclusion criteria, but assessing risk factors. The 52 studies evaluating the prevalence of renal dysfunction included 13,327 participants of interest, of whom at least 4499 underwent renal function testing. The prevalence of adverse renal effects ranged from 0% to 84%. This variation may be due to diversity of included malignancies, received treatments, reported outcome measures, follow-up duration and the methodological quality of available evidence.Seven out of 52 studies, including 244 participants, reported the prevalence of chronic kidney disease, which ranged from 2.4% to 32%.Of these 52 studies, 36 studied a decreased (estimated) GFR, including at least 432 CCS, and found it was present in 0% to 73.7% of participants. One eligible study reported an increased risk of glomerular dysfunction after concomitant treatment with aminoglycosides and vancomycin in CCS receiving total body irradiation (TBI). Four non-eligible studies assessing a total cohort of CCS, found nephrectomy and (high-dose (HD)) ifosfamide as risk factors for decreased GFR. The majority also reported cisplatin as a risk factor. In addition, two non-eligible studies showed an association of a longer follow-up period with glomerular dysfunction.Twenty-two out of 52 studies, including 851 participants, studied proteinuria, which was present in 3.5% to 84% of participants. Risk factors, analysed by three non-eligible studies, included HD cisplatin, (HD) ifosfamide, TBI, and a combination of nephrectomy and abdominal radiotherapy. However, studies were contradictory and incomparable.Eleven out of 52 studies assessed hypophosphataemia or tubular phosphate reabsorption (TPR), or both. Prevalence ranged between 0% and 36.8% for hypophosphataemia in 287 participants, and from 0% to 62.5% for impaired TPR in 246 participants. One non-eligible study investigated risk factors for hypophosphataemia, but could not find any association.Four out of 52 studies, including 128 CCS, assessed the prevalence of hypomagnesaemia, which ranged between 13.2% and 28.6%. Both non-eligible studies investigating risk factors identified cisplatin as a risk factor. Carboplatin, nephrectomy and follow-up time were other reported risk factors.The prevalence of hypertension ranged from 0% to 50% in 2464 participants (30/52 studies). Risk factors reported by one eligible study were older age at screening and abdominal radiotherapy. A non-eligible study also found long follow-up time as risk factor. Three non-eligible studies showed that a higher body mass index increased the risk of hypertension. Treatment-related risk factors were abdominal radiotherapy and TBI, but studies were inconsistent.Because of the profound heterogeneity of the studies, it was not possible to perform meta-analyses. Risk of bias was present in all studies.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of adverse renal effects after treatment with cisplatin, carboplatin, ifosfamide, radiation therapy involving the kidney region, nephrectomy, or any combination of these, ranged from 0% to 84% depending on the study population, received treatment combination, reported outcome measure, follow-up duration and methodological quality. With currently available evidence, it was not possible to draw solid conclusions regarding the prevalence of, and treatment-related risk factors for, specific adverse renal effects. Future studies should focus on adequate study designs and reporting, including large prospective cohort studies with adequate control groups when possible. In addition, these studies should deploy multivariable risk factor analyses to correct for possible confounding. Next to research concerning known nephrotoxic therapies, exploring nephrotoxicity after new therapeutic agents is advised for future studies. Until more evidence becomes available, CCS should preferably be enrolled into long-term follow-up programmes to monitor their renal function and blood pressure.

Natural history of renal tumours in von Hippel-Lindau disease: a large retrospective study of Chinese patients

Background

Historically, renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the main causes of death in von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease. However, the natural history of VHL-related RCC has not been thoroughly elucidated to date. This report described the natural history of VHL-related RCC in a large Chinese VHL cohort and might be helpful in the surveillance and treatment of VHL disease.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we included 196 renal tumours from 150 patients with VHL disease. Statistical analysis was used to evaluate the influence of age of onset, sex, family history, unilateral or bilateral tumour, VHL disease type, mutation type, mutation location, and tumour size on tumour growth, metastasis and survival in patients with VHL disease.

Results

The mean age of onset was 38.8 years, and the mean initial tumour size was 3.1 cm. The mean linear growth rate was 0.49 cm/year. Patients experienced faster tumour growth when they had later age of onset, larger initial tumour size, missense mutation, mutations locating in exon 3, and when they were not affected by cerebral or retinal haemangioblastomas. Tumours larger than 4 cm grew faster than those smaller than 4 cm. Bilateral tumours, large initial tumours, fast tumour growth and metastasis were risk factors for poor prognosis in VHL-related RCC.

Conclusion

This large study demonstrated that age of onset, initial tumour size, concomitant tumours, mutation type and mutation location had an effect on growth rate in VHL-related RCC. Active surveillance may be safe for patients with tumour size less than 4 cm, which is helpful in clinical decision-making.

Ischemia Techniques in Nephron-sparing Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Surgical, Oncological, and Functional Outcomes

CONTEXT

The optimal ischemia technique at partial nephrectomy (PN) for renal masses is yet to be determined.

OBJECTIVE

To summarize and analyze the current evidence about surgical, oncological, and functional outcomes after different ischemia techniques (cold, warm, and zero ischemia) at PN.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A computerized systematic literature search was performed by using PubMed (MEDLINE) and Science Direct. Identification and selection of the studies were conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) criteria. Outcomes of interest were estimated blood loss (EBL), overall complications, positive surgical margins, local tumor recurrence, and renal function preservation. Meta-analysis and forest-plot diagrams were performed. Overall pooled estimates, together with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), of the incidence of all parameters were obtained using a random effect model (RE-Model) on the log transformed means (MLN), proportion, or standardized mean change, as deemed appropriate.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

One hundred and fifty-six studies were included. No clinically meaningful differences were found in terms of EBL after cold (mean: 215.5; 95% CI: 154.2-276.8m), warm (mean: 201.8; 95% CI: 175.0-228.7ml), or zero (mean: 261.2; 95% CI: 171.0-351.3ml) ischemia technique. Overall, postoperative complications were recorded in 14.1% (95% CI: 6.7-27.4), 11.1% (95% CI: 10.0-12.3), and 9.7% (95% CI: 7.7-12.2) of patients after cold, warm, and zero ischemia (p<0.01), respectively. Positive surgical margins were recorded in 4.8% (95% CI: 1.9-10.9), 4.0% (95% CI: 3.4-4.8), and 5.6% (95% CI: 3.1-9.8) of patients after cold, warm, and zero ischemia (p<0.01), respectively. Local recurrence was recorded in 3.2% (95% CI: 1.9-5.2) and 3.1% (95% CI: 0.7-11.5) of patients after warm and zero ischemia (p<0.01), respectively. The log₂ of estimated glomerular filtration ratio mean changes were-1.37 (95% CI:-3.42 to 0.68),-1.00 (-2.04 to 0.03), and-0.71 (-1.15 to-0.27) ml/min after cold, warm, and zero ischemia, respectively. Low level of evidence, retrospective nature of most of included studies, a high risk of selection bias, and heterogeneity within included studies limited the overall quality of the analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The effect of ischemia technique at PN is still debatable and subject to confounding by several factors, namely, patients' selection criteria, surgical technique used, and percentage of functional parenchyma spared during surgery. These confounders bias available evidence and were addressed by only a small part of available studies. Unfortunately, the overall quality of literature evidences and the high risk of selection bias limit the possibility of any causal interpretation about the relationship between the ischemia technique used and surgical, oncological, or functional outcomes. Thus, none of the available ischemia technique could be recommended over the other.

PATIENT SUMMARY

The present analysis shows that none of the available ischemia techniques, namely, cold, warm, or zero ischemia, is universally superior to the others, and other factors play a role in the surgical outcome.

Efficacy and safety of everolimus treatment in a hemodialysis patient with metastatic atypical bronchial carcinoid: case report and literature review

Background

Everolimus was recently approved for the treatment of neuroendocrine tumors. However, its efficacy and tolerability in hemodialysis patients with end-stage renal disease is not established.

Case presentation

We describe the case of a 47-year-old man with end-stage renal disease who received everolimus plus Lanreotide for 9 months for the management of metastatic atypical bronchial carcinoid.

Conclusions

Everolimus is a treatment option for hemodialysis patients with metastatic atypical bronchial carcinoid. Based on our case report and review of literature, Everolimus does not require any dose reductions and is overall well tolerated in hemodialysis patients.

Von Hippel-Lindau disease: a single gene, several hereditary tumors

The Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by the predisposition for multiple tumors caused by germline mutations in the tumor suppressor gene VHL. This disease is associated with a high morbidity and mortality and presents a variable expression, with different phenotypes from family to family, affecting different organs during the lifetime. The main manifestations of VHL are hemangioblastomas of the central nervous system and retina, renal carcinomas and cysts, bilateral pheochromocytomas, cystic and solid tumors of the pancreas, cystadenomas of the epididymis, and endolymphatic sac tumors. The discovery of any of the syndrome components should raise suspicion of this disease and other stigmas must then be investigated. Due to the complexities associated with management of the various VHL manifestation, the diagnosis and the follow-up of this syndrome is a challenge in the clinical practice and a multidisciplinary approach is needed. The particular relevance to endocrinologists is the detection of pheochromocytomas in 35% and islet cell tumors in 17% of VHL patients, which can be associated with hypertension, hypoglycemia, cardiac arrhythmias, and carcinoid syndrome. The purpose of this review is to define the Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome addressing its clinical aspects and classification, the importance of genetic counseling and to propose a protocol for clinical follow-up.

Clinical outcomes of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for small renal cancer

Partial nephrectomy is the treatment of choice for small renal cell carcinoma (RCC) from the perspective of cancer management and renal function. However, when patients with RCC are of advanced age, exhibit severe comorbidities, including cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, or have hereditary RCC, ablative therapies, including radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and cryoablation are useful treatment options. In the present study, the clinical outcomes of percutaneous RFA for treating small RCC were evaluated. Between December 2005 and March 2015, 40 patients (41 renal tumors in total) underwent RFA and a total of 50 sessions of RFA were performed. The average tumor size was 2.5 cm. A total of 18 tumors were exophytic and 23 were parenchymal. Of the 41 tumors, 85.4% were completely ablated by initial RFA and the rate of complete ablation following reablation for residual viable lesions was 95.1%. Local recurrence-free survival following complete ablation was 84.2% at 3 years. A patient with a 4.7 cm RCC tumor rapidly progressed following four RFA treatments until complete ablation was achieved. The metastasis-free survival rate following initial RFA was 95.7% at 3 years. The RCC-specific survival was 100% (mean follow-up, 38 months). Adverse events occurred in five sessions (10%); however, only 1 patient with arteriovenous fistula required intervention (transarterial embolization). The mean hospital stay following RFA was 3.2 days. The mean decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate following RFA was 2.7%. The results of the present study indicate that percutaneous RFA was an effective treatment for small RCCs with respect to management of cancer, minimal invasiveness and minimal loss of renal function, particularly in patients for whom surgery would be a high risk and those at increased risk of deterioration of renal function.

Advanced renal cell carcinoma associated with von Hippel-Lindau disease: A case report and review of the literature

The autosomal dominant hereditary disorder von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is caused by a germline mutation in the VHL gene. The symptoms of VHL include hemangioblastoma of the central nervous system, retinal angiomas, visceral tumors and multiple visceral cysts. However, advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) occurs in few VHL patients at initial diagnosis; in addition, sporadic VHL disease with de novo germline mutation is rare. The current study reports the clinical case of a 33-year-old Asian male patient diagnosed with advanced bilateral multicentric renal carcinomas. The patient underwent radical nephrectomy with embolectomy of the right kidney for treatment of T₃b-stage RCC and laparoscopic nephron-sparing surgery of the left kidney. Sunitinib was administered following histological diagnosis and during follow-up. Genetic analysis revealed a missense mutation, c.194C>G (p.Ser65Trp). In addition, genetic analysis of the patient's parents and brothers, who were unaffected, confirmed a diagnosis of de novo VHL disease. To the best of our knowledge, the present study reports the first known case of a sporadic de novo germline mutation of VHL at c.194C>G. Current understanding of the molecular genetics and pathophysiology of VHL disease, as well as developments in surgical and target therapies for RCC have advanced in recent years; however, early detection through genetic screening and regular clinical surveillance of VHL disease patients and their families continues to be the primary basis for managing the disease.

Management of von hippel-lindau disease: an interdisciplinary review

Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is an autosomal dominantly inherited tumour predisposition syndrome with an incidence of 1:36,000 newborns, the estimated prevalence in Europe is about 1-9/100,000. It is associated with an increased risk of developing various benign and malignant tumours, thus affecting multiple organs at different time points in the life of a patient. Disease severity and diversity as well as age at first symptoms vary considerably, and diagnostic delay due to failure of recognition is a relevant issue. The identification of a disease-causing VHL germline mutation subsequently allows family members at risk to undergo predictive genetic testing after genetic counselling. Clinical management of patients and families should optimally be offered as an interdisciplinary approach. Prophylactic screening programs are a cornerstone of care, and have markedly improved median overall survival of affected patients. The aim of this review is to give an overview of the heterogeneous manifestations of the VHL syndrome and to highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges characteristic for this orphan disease. A comprehensive update of the underlying genetic and molecular principles is additionally provided. We also describe how the St. Gallen VHL multidisciplinary group is organised as an example of interdisciplinary cooperation in a tertiary hospital in Switzerland.

Renal tumor size is an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in von Hippel-Lindau disease

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) on survival in von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease and to assess the relationship between tumor size and survival.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, the medical records of 72 patients who presented with VHL disease between 1994 and 2012 were reviewed. Clinical VHL-related characteristics were analyzed, and the prognostic value of renal tumor size for overall survival was assessed by using Cox regression models.

RESULTS

Of the 72 VHL patients, 42 (58.3 %) and 30 (41.7 %) were male and female, respectively. The mean age was 37.9 years, and the median follow-up period was 61.5 months. In terms of VHL-related manifestations, 40 (55.6 %) had RCC, 46 (63.8 %) had hemangioblastoma in the cerebellum, 10 (13.9 %) had hemangioblastoma in the spinal cord, 34 (47.2 %) had a pancreatic mass, 18 (25.0 %) had pheochromocytoma, and 14 (19.4 %) had retinal capillary hemangioma. RCC was a major cause of mortality: Of the 11 patients who died, nine (12.5 %) died due to RCC progression. The 5-year overall survival rate was 85.6 % for all patients, 96.9 % for patients without RCC, 83.6 % for patients with RCC < 3 cm, and 75.8 % for patients with RCC ≥ 3 cm. Multivariable analysis showed that RCC ≥ 3 cm was an independent predictor of overall survival (HR 9.87, 95 % CI 1.17-83.00, p = 0.035) along with age (HR 1.05, 95 % CI 1.01-1.10, p = 0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

Renal tumor size was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in VHL disease. This observation will be helpful for planning RCC treatment in VHL disease.

Patterns of recurrence and surveillance strategies for renal cell carcinoma following surgical resection

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains one of the most lethal urologic malignancies, with up to 40% of patients eventually dying of cancer progression. Despite advances in the diagnosis, staging and treatment of patients with RCC, approximately a third of patients who undergo surgery for clinically localized RCC will suffer a recurrence. Timely identification of recurrences following surgical extirpation is imperative in the treatment of these patients. RCC is known to metastasize through hematogenous routes of spread to distant organ sites and via lymphatic channels to regional lymph nodes. The path of tumor escape is associated with diverse clinical outcomes and a unique tumor biology. A consensus on surveillance regimens for patients following surgical resection of localized disease is lacking. The most extensively used system for providing prognostic information regarding survival and recurrence of disease has historically been the tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) classification system. As a result, most contemporary surveillance protocols have tailored follow-up regimens according to stage-based stratifications. Numerous studies have recently demonstrated that certain clinical and histopathological factors can improve the prediction of tumor recurrence. The incorporation of these prognostic factors into stage-based stratification models should be better than stage alone in attempting to provide a rational approach to identifying treatable recurrences while minimizing unnecessary exams and tests, as well as patient anxiety. Advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis, behavior and molecular biology of RCC have paved the way for developments that may enhance early diagnosis and prognostication, and improve survival for patients. Lastly, molecular markers should, in the future, revolutionize surveillance protocols for RCC by tailoring follow-up to specific molecular classifications.

Early and late renal adverse effects after potentially nephrotoxic treatment for childhood cancer

BACKGROUND

Great improvements in diagnostics and treatment for malignant disease in childhood have led to a major increase in survival. However, childhood cancer survivors (CCS) are at great risk for developing adverse effects caused by multimodal treatment for their malignancy. Nephrotoxicity is one of these known (acute) side effects of several treatments, including cisplatin, carboplatin, ifosfamide, radiotherapy and nephrectomy, and can cause glomerular filtration rate impairment, proteinuria, tubulopathy and hypertension. However, evidence about the long-term effects of these treatments on renal function remains inconclusive. To reduce the number of (long-term) nephrotoxic events in CCS, it is important to know the risk of, and risk factors for, early and late renal adverse effects, so that ultimately treatment and screening protocols can be adjusted.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate existing evidence on the effects of potentially nephrotoxic treatment modalities on the prevalence of and associated risk factors for renal dysfunction in survivors treated for childhood cancer with a median or mean survival of at least one year after cessation of treatment, where possible in comparison with healthy controls or CCS treated without potentially nephrotoxic treatment.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the following electronic databases: the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library, Issue 4, 2011), MEDLINE/PubMed (from 1945 to December 2011) and EMBASE/Ovid (from 1980 to December 2011).

SELECTION CRITERIA

With the exception of case reports, case series and studies including fewer than 20 participants, we included studies with all study designs that reported on renal function (one year or longer after cessation of treatment) in children and adults who were treated for a paediatric malignancy (aged 18 years or younger at diagnosis) with cisplatin, carboplatin, ifosfamide, radiation including the kidney region and/or a nephrectomy.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently performed study selection, risk of bias assessment and data extraction using standardised data collection forms. Analyses were performed according to the guidelines of the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions.

MAIN RESULTS

The search strategy identified 5504 studies, of which 5138 were excluded on the basis of title and/or abstract. The full-text screening of the remaining 366 articles resulted in the inclusion of 57 studies investigating the prevalence of and sometimes also risk factors for early and late renal adverse effects of treatment for childhood cancer. The 57 studies included at least 13,338 participants of interest for this study, of whom at least 6516 underwent renal function testing. The prevalence of renal adverse effects ranged from 0% to 84%. This variation may be due to diversity in included malignancies, prescribed treatments, reported outcome measurements and the methodological quality of available evidence.Chronic kidney disease/renal insufficiency (as defined by the authors of the original studies) was reported in 10 of 57 studies. The prevalence of chronic kidney disease ranged between 0.5% and 70.4% in the 10 studies and between 0.5% and 18.8% in the six studies that specifically investigated Wilms' tumour survivors treated with a unilateral nephrectomy.A decreased (estimated) glomerular filtration rate was present in 0% to 50% of all assessed survivors (32/57 studies). Total body irradiation; concomitant treatment with aminoglycosides, vancomycin, amphotericin B or cyclosporin A; older age at treatment and longer interval from therapy to follow-up were significant risk factors reported in multivariate analyses. Proteinuria was present in 0% to 84% of all survivors (17/57 studies). No study performed multivariate analysis to assess risk factors for proteinuria.Hypophosphataemia was assessed in seven studies. Reported prevalences ranged between 0% and 47.6%, but four of seven studies found a prevalence of 0%. No studies assessed risk factors for hypophosphataemia using multivariate analysis. The prevalence of impairment of tubular phosphate reabsorption was mostly higher (range 0% to 62.5%; 11/57 studies). Higher cumulative ifosfamide dose, concomitant cisplatin treatment, nephrectomy and longer follow-up duration were significant risk factors for impaired tubular phosphate reabsorption in multivariate analyses.Treatment with cisplatin and carboplatin was associated with a significantly lower serum magnesium level in multivariate analysis, and the prevalence of hypomagnesaemia ranged between 0% and 37.5% in the eight studies investigating serum magnesium.Hypertension was investigated in 24 of the 57 studies. Reported prevalences ranged from 0% to 18.2%. A higher body mass index was the only significant risk factor noted in more than one multivariate analysis. Other reported factors that significantly increased the risk of hypertension were use of total body irradiation, abdominal irradiation, acute kidney injury, unrelated or autologous stem cell donor type, growth hormone therapy and older age at screening. Previous infection with hepatitis C significantly decreased the risk of hypertension.Because of the profound heterogeneity of the studies, it was not possible to perform any meta-analysis.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of renal adverse events after treatment with cisplatin, carboplatin, ifosfamide, radiation therapy involving the kidney region and/or nephrectomy ranged from 0% to 84%. With currently available evidence, it was not possible to draw any conclusions with regard to prevalence of and risk factors for renal adverse effects. Future studies should focus on adequate study design and reporting and should deploy multivariate risk factor analysis to correct for possible confounding. Until more evidence becomes available, CCS should be enrolled into long-term follow-up programmes to monitor their renal function and blood pressure.

Nephron sparing surgery in von Hippel-Lindau associated renal cell carcinoma; clinicopathological long-term follow-up

We evaluated the clinicopathological outcome of von Hippel-Lindau (VHL)-patients who had mainly undergone nephron sparing surgery (NSS) for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) when the tumour diameter has reached 4.0 cm. Multiple, bilateral RCC with high recurrence rates and subsequent repeated interventions, followed by increasing risk for end-stage renal failure and metastases is characteristic for VHL. NSS is widely used for VHL-associated RCC at 3.0 cm cut-off. 54 VHL patients underwent NSS, nephrectomy or thermal ablation for RCC. We analysed time to second treatment, overall and cancer specific survival, intra- and post-operative data as well as tumour characteristics. We also examined the effects of delaying removal of RCC to 4.0 cm cut-off. Median follow-up was 67 months. 54 patients underwent 97 kidney treatments. 96 % of first and 67 % of second interventions comprised of NSS. 0 % metastases were observed in the group with largest tumour size ≤4 cm. The probability for second surgery was 21 %, at 5 years and 42 % at 10 years. Median time to second NSS was 149.6 months. The overall and cancer specific survival rate was 96.5 and 100 % at 5-year follow-up, and 82.5 and 90.5 % respectively at 10-year follow-up. Median delay to second NSS at 4.0 cm cut-off versus 3.0 cm was 27.8 months. NSS was both successfully used in first and second surgery and to some extent even in third surgery. By following a strict surveillance protocol it is possible to support a 4.0 cm-threshold strategy for NSS, based on the assumption that delaying time to second NSS prevents patients from premature renal failure.

Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of renal cell carcinomas in patients with von Hippel Lindau disease: indications, techniques, complications, and outcomes

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in patients with von Hippel Lindau (VHL) disease tends to be multifocal, bilateral, and recur or develop new tumors after removal. These characteristics make treating hereditary RCCs difficult for urologists or radiologists compared to treating a sporadic RCC. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally-invasive treatment for small hereditary RCCs associated with a low complication rate and a minimal decrease in renal function. No RFA guidelines have been established about what to treat and when and how to ablate RCCs in patients with VHL disease. Besides, reports on complications and treatment outcomes in this patient group are rare. The purpose of this review is to discuss the indications, techniques, complications, and outcomes of RFA in treating RCC in patients with VHL disease.

Active surveillance of renal masses in von Hippel-Lindau disease: growth rates and clinical outcome over a median follow-up period of 56 months

To evaluate the natural outcome of a surveillance strategy for enhancing renal masses associated with von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL). From January 1988 to June 2011, a watchful waiting strategy was carried out in 16 cases with 42 enhancing renal masses. Clinical data were reviewed to determine tumor growth rate, subsequent interventions, and outcome of follow-up. During a median follow-up of 83 months (range, 55-279), 18 surgical interventions were performed in 13 cases; local recurrence of tumor occurred in 4 cases; 4 patients died (two of metastasis disease, one of CNS Hemangioblastomas with hemorrhage, and one of an unrelated disease) and 12 survived. The median follow-up duration for 42 renal masses was 56 months (range, 19-116 months). The mean tumor growth rate observed was 0.529 cm/year (range, 0.036-1.870 cm/year). The mean growth rate of the tumors larger than 3 cm was 0.573 cm/year, which was not significantly different from that of those smaller tumors (growth rate 0.507 cm/year, P = 0.5905). There was no significant correlation between initial tumor size and growth rate in our cohort with a correlation coefficient of 0.149(P = 0.3480). At the last follow-up, 38 (90.5%) tumors were larger than 3 cm and no metastasis disease developed among tumors ≤4 cm. Progression to metastatic disease was detected in 2 patients. The majority of the enhancing renal masses with VHL disease may still be indolent and do not metastasize during a long period of follow-up even in tumors larger than 3 cm. Metastatic potential during active surveillance appears to be low in VHL patients with Renal tumors ≤4 cm.

Von Hippel-Lindau: how a rare disease illuminates cancer biology

Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is a rare autosomal dominant syndrome (1/36,000 live births) with highly penetrance that predispose to the development of a panel of highly vascularized tumors (model of tumoral angiogenesis). Main manifestations include central nervous system (CNS) and retinal haemangioblastomas, endolymphatic sac tumors, clear-cell renal cell carcinomas (RCC), phaeochromocytomas and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. RCC has become the first potential cause of mortality and VHL disease is the main cause of inherited RCC. The disease is caused by germline mutations in the VHL tumor-suppressor gene that plays a major role in regulation of the oxygen-sensing pathway by targeting the hypoxia-inducible factor HIF for degradation in proteasome. VHL has also major HIF-independent functions, specially in regulation of primary cilium, extracellular matrix and apoptosis. Somatic inactivation of the VHL gene is the main molecular event in most sporadic RCC and the treatment of advanced RCC has been revolutionized by targeted therapy with drugs that block angiogenesis. These drugs are now in first line in metastatic sporadic RCC and have shown promising results for RCC, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and malignant pheochromocytomas in VHL patients.

Management of renal tumors in Von Hippel-Lindau disease by percutaneous CT fluoroscopic guided radiofrequency ablation: preliminary results

We evaluated the feasibility and safety of percutaneous radiofrequency (RF) ablation of renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) in patients with Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease. A total of 12 RCCs were treated by RF ablation in 7 patients with VHL disease. RF electrodes were placed under CT fluoroscopic guidance with conscious sedation. Technical success, technical effectiveness (disappearance of tumor enhancement), local tumor progression, complications and change in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were evaluated. A total of 9 sessions were undertaken. All procedures were performed with a planned protocol with a technical success rate of 100%. Tumor enhancement disappeared in all 12 tumors indicating a technical effectiveness rate of 100%. Local tumor progression was not found in any patient during the mean follow-up of 22 ± 11 months (range 12-46 months). There were no complications related to the RF procedures. The mean eGFR decreased from 65.3 ± 10.9 ml/min (range 48.5-77.5 ml/min) to 60.3 ± 11.3 ml/min (range, 45.8-73.4 ml/min, P < 0.03). The mean percentage decrease in eGFR after the last ablation was 7.6% (range 0-21.6%). Renal RF ablation is a safe and effective treatment for renal tumours that may allow patients with VHL disease to avoid major surgical interventions.

von Hippel-Lindau disease: a clinical and scientific review

The autosomal dominantly inherited disorder von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL) is caused by germline mutations in the VHL tumour suppressor gene (TSG). VHL mutations predispose to the development of a variety of tumours (most commonly retinal and central nervous system haemangioblastomas, clear cell renal carcinoma and phaeochromocytomas). Here, we review the clinical and genetic features of VHL disease, briefly review the molecular pathogenesis and outline clinical management and tumour surveillance strategies.

Feasibility and outcomes of partial nephrectomy for resection of at least 20 tumors in a single renal unit

PURPOSE

Patients with hereditary renal cancer are at increased risk for recurrent bilateral multifocal tumors and may require aggressive nephron sparing surgery to prevent renal replacement therapy. We evaluated feasibility and outcomes in patients who underwent partial nephrectomy with removal of at least 20 tumors in a single renal unit at 1 setting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 30 patients who underwent a total of 34 partial nephrectomies with removal of at least 20 tumors at our institution from 1993 to 2008. Operative reports and hospital records were reviewed for perioperative data, and renal functional and oncologic outcomes. We compared preoperative and postoperative renal function with the 2-tailed t test.

RESULTS

There were no deaths and only 1 renal unit was lost. A median of 26.5 tumors was removed. Median estimated blood loss was 3,500 ml and median operative time was 9 hours. Perioperative complications developed in greater than 50% of cases. There was a statistically significant decrease in the estimated glomerular filtration rate at 3 months (67 vs 59 ml/minute/1.73 m(2), p < 0.001). Only 1 patient had metastatic disease. Eight of the 34 operated kidneys required subsequent intervention during the median followup of 52 months (range 4 to 187).

CONCLUSIONS

Aggressive partial nephrectomy to resect multiple tumors is technically feasible. There was a significant decrease in postoperative renal function but more than 80% of preoperative renal function was preserved in this cohort except in 1 patient. Also, oncologic outcomes were encouraging at intermediate term followup.

Long-term management of bilateral, multifocal, recurrent renal carcinoma

Patients with bilateral multifocal renal cell carcinoma are at increased risk of developing locally recurrent or de novo tumors after nephron-sparing procedures. When dealing with recurrent renal masses the options are limited to observation, total nephrectomy, ablation, or repeat surgical intervention. The main reason for recurrence after nephron-sparing surgery is likely to be the presence of multifocal disease, which is identified in 4.3-25.0% of radical nephrectomy specimen. Bilateral renal involvement is seen in almost 90% of cases of multifocal renal carcinoma, and conversely the majority of patients with bilateral disease will have multifocal tumors. Many patients who are treated for multifocal disease, therefore, require subsequent surgical interventions. The outcome data for repeat renal interventions demonstrate reasonable functional and oncologic outcomes despite higher rates of perioperative complications. Our own results support the use of reoperative renal surgery rather than total nephrectomy and renal replacement therapy.

Oncological outcomes of partial nephrectomy for multifocal renal cell carcinoma greater than 4 cm

PURPOSE

Despite aggressive screening patients with hereditary renal cancers can present with large multifocal tumors. We present oncological outcomes in patients with hereditary renal cell carcinoma treated with partial nephrectomy for multifocal solid tumors with the largest lesion greater than 4 cm.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 1995 and 2008 we identified 58 patients with hereditary renal cell carcinoma treated at our institution with partial nephrectomy for solid tumors greater than 4 cm. Data collected included demographic parameters, tumor size, pathological findings and laterality. Overall and metastasis-free survival was calculated based on information from the most recent followup evaluation and imaging.

RESULTS

The cohort included 41 patients (71%) with von Hippel-Lindau disease, 10 (17%) with Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome and 7 (11%) with hereditary papillary renal carcinoma. Mean age was 43.7 years (range 18 to 63) and mean largest tumor size was 5.3 cm (range 4 to 13). A mean of 6.4 kidney tumors (range 1 to 44) was resected. There was a predominance of nuclear grade 2 tumors (51 cases or 85%) and clear cell histology (44 or 73%), followed by papillary type I histology (7 or 11.7%). Overall and metastasis-free survival rates were 93% and 96.5%, respectively, at a median followup of 45 months (range 2 to 163).

CONCLUSIONS

Metastasis-free and overall survival of our patients is similar to that in the literature of those who undergo partial nephrectomy for T1B tumors in the sporadic population. Multifocality does not affect oncological outcomes at intermediate followup. Partial nephrectomy can be offered to patients with hereditary disease who present with multifocal tumors greater than 4 cm.

Repeat partial nephrectomy on the solitary kidney: surgical, functional and oncological outcomes

PURPOSE

We examined outcomes in patients with recurrent or de novo renal lesions treated with repeat partial nephrectomy on a solitary kidney.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed the records of patients who underwent nephron sparing surgery at the National Cancer Institute from 1989 to 2008. Patients were included in analysis if they underwent repeat partial nephrectomy on a solitary kidney. Perioperative, functional and oncological outcomes were assessed. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation for the estimated glomerular filtration rate. Oncological efficacy was examined by the need for subsequent repeat renal surgery and the development of metastatic disease.

RESULTS

A total of 25 patients were included in the analysis. A median of 4 tumors were resected. Median estimated blood loss was 2,400 ml and median operative time was 8.5 hours. Perioperative complications occurred in 52% of patients, including 1 death and the loss of 3 renal units. There was a decrease in the estimated glomerular filtration rate at followup visit 1 within 3 months after surgery but at 1-year followup the difference was not significant (p <0.01 and 0.12, respectively). Surgical intervention was recommended in 8 patients (38%) for recurrent or de novo tumors at a median of 36 months. The average metastasis-free survival rate in the cohort was 95% at 57 months (median 50, range 3 to 196).

CONCLUSIONS

Repeat partial nephrectomy in patients with solitary kidney is a high risk alternative. The complication rate is high and there is a modest decrease in renal function but most patients remain free of dialysis with acceptable oncological outcomes at intermediate followup.

Clinical characteristics of renal cell carcinoma in Korean patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease compared to sporadic bilateral or multifocal renal cell carcinoma

This study was done to analyze the clinical characteristics of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in Korean patients with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease. Between January 1996 and July 2008, 1,514 patients were diagnosed with RCC and 24 patients were diagnosed with VHL disease at our institute. We analyzed the clinical characteristics of the 24 patients diagnosed with VHL. The mean age of patients with VHL was 39.2+/-12.6 yr; the mean age of patients with both VHL and RCC was 42.5+/-10.3 yr. Among the 24 patients with VHL, 7 patients had retinal angiomas, 11 had RCC, 16 had renal lesions, 18 had pancreatic lesions and 21 had cerebellar hemangioblastomas. There was no significant difference between survival rates of patients with VHL alone and those with VHL and RCC. However, cancer-specific survival rates were significantly different between patients with both VHL and RCC and patients with sporadic bilateral or multifocal RCC. In our Korean study, the incidence of RCC in patients with VHL disease is 45.8% and the incidence of VHL disease in patients with RCC is 0.73%. Due to the low overall incidence of VHL in Korea, extended multi-institutional studies are needed to establish the true characteristics of VHL disease.

Localized renal cell carcinoma management: an update

OBJECTIVE

To review the current modalities of treatment for localized renal cell carcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search for keywords: renal cell carcinoma, radical nephrectomy, nephron sparing surgery, minimally invasive surgery, and cryoablation was performed for the years 2000 through 2008. The most relevant publications were examined.

RESULTS

New epidemiologic data and current treatment of renal cancer were covered. Concerning the treatment of clinically localized disease, the literature supports the standardization of partial nephrectomy and laparoscopic approaches as therapeutic options with better functional results and oncologic success comparable to standard radical resection. Promising initial results are now available for minimally invasive therapies, such as cryotherapy and radiofrequency ablation. Active surveillance has been reported with acceptable results, including for those who are poor surgical candidates.

CONCLUSIONS

This review covers current advances in radical and conservative treatments of localized kidney cancer. The current status of nephron-sparing surgery, ablative therapies, and active surveillance based on natural history has resulted in great progress in the management of localized renal cell carcinoma.

Choice of operation for clinically localized renal tumor

The cornerstone of treatment for localized renal tumors is surgical excision, which until recently was accomplished primarily through radical nephrectomy. The last 2 decades have seen a rapid evolution in the surgical management of renal cell carcinoma, marked by the increased use of nephron-sparing surgery and the application of minimally invasive techniques. A plethora of surgical options now are available. This article discusses the optimal surgical approach to renal tumors in various clinical scenarios. In all these discussions we assume that a proactive approach to treatment is indicated and desired, recognizing that active surveillance is always an additional option to consider in certain subpopulations such as the elderly or infirm.

Patterns of intervention for renal lesions in von Hippel-Lindau disease

OBJECTIVE

To review the records of patients at our centre with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease, to determine the incidence of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and patterns of intervention using minimally invasive therapies.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with genetically confirmed VHL were evaluated in a multidisciplinary clinical care centre established in 2003. Patients were preferentially offered percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Cystic tumours were considered contraindications to RFA, as were larger tumours or extensive multifocality with tumours of >3 cm. These patients had either open partial nephrectomy (OPN) or, in unsalvageable cases, radical nephrectomy.

RESULTS

Of 38 patients with VHL, 16 (42%) were found to have RCC; two with small tumours are under observation. Fourteen of the 16 have had a total of 25 renal interventions, none of whom has progressed to end-stage renal disease. OPN was performed in 15 (60%) cases, including those who had had multiple bilateral procedures; RFA was used in five (20%) cases. After median follow-up of 41 months, local recurrence was detected in 33%; the metastasis-free survival rate was 93.3% and overall survival 87.5%.

CONCLUSIONS

Of patients with VHL, 88% with renal involvement require interventions for their kidneys. OPN is the primary method used, and was successful both as a primary and secondary procedure in 60% of cases. In only 20% was RFA possible due to limitations of current technology. The introduction of protocol-based targeted therapies holds the promise of reducing the number of interventions required for treating VHL.

Feasibility and outcomes of repeat partial nephrectomy

PURPOSE

Despite the proven efficacy of nephron sparing surgery, patients with hereditary renal cancer remain at risk for tumor recurrence. Management options for recurrent tumors include completion nephrectomy, ablation and repeat partial nephrectomy. We examine the feasibility and outcomes of repeat partial nephrectomy performed on the same renal unit.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 51 attempted repeat partial nephrectomy procedures in 47 patients from 1992 to 2006. Demographic information as well as intraoperative, perioperative and renal functional outcome data were collected. Comparison of preoperative and postoperative renal function was performed using the 2-tailed t test.

RESULTS

Major perioperative complications or reoperations occurred in 10 of 51 (19.6%) cases that included 1 perioperative mortality (1.9%). In cases of successful repeat partial nephrectomy there was a statistically significant increase in postoperative serum creatinine (1.35 vs 1.16 mg/dl, p <0.05), and a significant decrease in creatinine clearance (84.6 vs 95.3 ml per minute, p = 0.05) and renogram split function (52.3% vs 54.8%, p <0.05). Two patients required long-term hemodialysis (3.9%). Of the 51 renal units 10 (19.6%) required subsequent operations for additional local recurrence or de novo tumor formations with a median time to subsequent surgery of 50 months. Of 47 patients 46 are alive at a median followup of 56 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeat partial nephrectomy is technically feasible. Although there is a statistically significant decrease in postoperative renal functional studies, most patients retained sufficient function to avoid hemodialysis. Repeat partial nephrectomy may provide acceptable oncological control despite the anticipated development of locally recurrent or de novo tumors.

Salvage partial nephrectomy for hereditary renal cancer: feasibility and outcomes

PURPOSE

Patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease may require repeat partial nephrectomies to avoid the need for renal replacement therapy. We evaluated outcomes in patients who underwent third or fourth partial nephrectomies on the same kidney, which we call salvage partial nephrectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of patients who underwent surgery at the National Cancer Institute from 1999 to 2006. We identified 11 of 13 patients in whom salvage partial nephrectomy was performed. Surgical outcomes were assessed by renal preservation as well as intraoperative and postoperative complications. Functional outcomes were assessed by comparing serum creatinine, 24-hour urine creatinine clearance, and nuclear renal scan before and after salvage partial nephrectomy.

RESULTS

All patients were alive and had no radiographic evidence of metastatic disease at a median followup of 25 months (range 3 to 83). Major perioperative complications occurred in 6 of 13 patients (46%) and loss of a renal unit occurred in 3 (23%). None of the patients in whom renal units were preserved required dialysis, although there was an upward trend in serum creatinine and a downward trend in creatinine clearance at postoperative followup (p = 0.07 and 0.08, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Although salvage partial nephrectomy is technically demanding and it has a high complication rate, it allows many patients to avoid dialysis. We believe that this experience can be used as a reference for surgeons and patients when considering the risks and benefits of salvage partial nephrectomy.

Local recurrence after nephron-sparing surgery in von Hippel-Lindau disease

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the risks of local recurrence and repeat surgery after nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) in von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease to propose a therapeutic strategy to patients.

METHODS

A total of 21 patients with VHL disease and renal tumors were followed up from February 1987 to August 2005. Surgical resection of all tumors was chosen when the largest tumor exceeded a diameter of 30 mm.

RESULTS

Of the 21 patients, 18 underwent surgery at a mean age of 38.5 years (range 24 to 69). The median follow-up of the series was 100 months. Of the 17 patients treated by NSS, 8 developed a recurrence. The mean time to local recurrence was 53 +/- 38.8 months (range 10 to 115), and the recurrence tumors grew at a stable mean rate of 0.34 +/- 0.32 cm/yr (range 0.1 to 1.08). Repeat NSS was performed on the same kidney in 2 cases and eight recurrences were kept under surveillance. The disease-specific survival rate was 93.8% at 10 years. The local recurrence rate was 45.6% at 5 years and 83.7% at 10 years. The overall repeat surgery rate was 23.1% at 5 years and 63.4% at 10 years. No metastasis or chronic renal insufficiency was observed in patients undergoing NSS only.

CONCLUSIONS

Five years after NSS, the risk of developing new tumors in the same kidney and the overall risk of repeat surgery was about 50% and 25%, respectively. However, the strategy of elective NSS and close surveillance preserved renal function without increasing the risk of metastasis.

Clinicopathological features and prognosis of synchronous bilateral renal cell carcinoma: an international multicentre experience

OBJECTIVE

To present a multicentre experience and the largest cohort to date of nonmetastatic (N0M0) synchronous bilateral renal cell carcinoma (RCC), as because it is rare the single-institutional experience is limited.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively studied 10 337 patients from 12 urological centres to identify patients with N0M0 synchronous bilateral RCC; the clinicopathological features and cancer-specific survival were compared to a cohort treated for N0M0 unilateral RCC.

RESULTS

In all, 153 patients had synchronous bilateral solid renal tumours, of whom 135 (88%) had synchronous bilateral RCC, 118 with nonmetastatic disease; 91% had nonfamilial bilateral RCC. Bilateral clear cell RCC was the major histological subtype (76%), and papillary RCC was the next most frequent (19%). Multifocality was found in 54% of bilateral RCCs. Compared with unilateral RCC, patients did not differ in Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) and T classification, but bilateral RCCs were more frequently multifocal (54% vs 16%, P < 0.001) and of the papillary subtype (19% vs 12%), and less frequently clear cell RCC (76% vs 83%, P = 0.005). For the outcome, patients with nonmetastatic synchronous bilateral RCC and unilateral RCC had a similar prognosis (P = 0.63); multifocality did not affect survival (P = 0.60). Multivariate analysis identified ECOG PS, T classification, and Fuhrman grade, but not laterality, as independent prognostic factors for cancer-specific survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with N0M0 synchronous bilateral RCC and N0M0 unilateral RCC have a similar prognosis. The frequency of a familial history for RCC (von Hippel-Lindau disease or familial RCC) was significantly greater in bilateral synchronous than in unilateral RCC. The significant pathological findings in synchronous bilateral RCC are papillary subtype and multifocality.

Genotype-phenotype correlations in von Hippel-Lindau disease

von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is a dominantly inherited familial cancer syndrome resulting from mutations in the VHL tumor suppressor gene. VHL disease displays marked variation in expression and the presence of pheochromocytoma has been linked to missense VHL mutations. We analyzed genotype-phenotype correlations in 573 individuals with VHL disease. Routine clinical and radiological surveillance of VHL patients and at-risk relatives was associated with increased detection of retinal angiomatosis (73 vs. 59% of cases) and a reduction in age at diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) (44.0+/-10.9 vs. 39.7+/-10.3 years). We confirmed the association of pheochromocytoma with missense mutations described previously, but stratifying missense mutations into those that resulted in substitution of a surface amino acid and those that disrupted structural integrity demonstrated that surface amino acid substitutions conferred a higher pheochromocytoma risk. Age at first manifestation of VHL disease was significantly earlier (P=0.001), and age-related risks of retinal angiomas and RCC were higher (P=0.022 and P=0.0008, respectively) in individuals with a nonsense or frameshift mutation than in those with deletions or missense mutations that disrupted the structural integrity of the VHL gene product (pVHL). These results extend genotype-phenotype-protein structure correlations in VHL disease and provide a baseline for future chemoprevention studies in VHL disease.

Intraoperative pathology consultation for kidney and urinary bladder specimens

CONTEXT

Intraoperative pathology consultation for kidney and urinary bladder specimens is relatively infrequent. Scant literature is devoted to this topic.

OBJECTIVE

The clinical indications and diagnostic usefulness and pitfalls of intraoperative pathology consultation of kidney and urinary bladder specimens will be reviewed, based on literature and personally encountered cases.

DATA SOURCES

The indications for intraoperative pathology consultation for renal lesions included (1) surgical margins in partial nephrectomy specimens, (2) solid renal mass in unusual clinical or radiologic settings, (3) synchronous renal and extrarenal masses, (4) cystic renal lesions, (5) ureteral surgical margin for transitional cell carcinoma, (6) multiple renal masses, (7) solid mass in a diffusely cystic kidney, and (8) evaluation of renal injury. The indications for urinary bladder included (1) status of the surgical margins, (2) diagnosis of bladder tumor biopsy, (3) diagnosis of extravesical tumors with vesical extension, (4) diagnosis of extravesical mass, including pelvic lymph nodes encountered during cystectomy, and (5) status of bladder neck margin during radical prostatectomy for cancer. The frequent problematic areas for the kidney included misdiagnosis or incorrect classification of cystic tumors or spindle cell tumors, and confusion of clear cell renal cell carcinoma with inflammatory lesions. The problematic areas for urinary bladder included the differential diagnoses of high-grade dysplasia/carcinoma in situ with reactive changes at the ureteral or urethral surgical margins.

CONCLUSIONS

Distinctive indications and diagnostic pitfalls are recognized for intraoperative consultation of renal or urinary bladder lesions. Awareness of the pertinent problems should improve diagnostic accuracy and facilitate the proper management of these lesions.

Management of von Hippel–Lindau-associated kidney cancer

Von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL) is an autosomal-dominant inherited condition that predisposes patients to develop renal cysts and tumors, most commonly in the second to fourth decades of life. Renal cysts and tumors have historically been a major cause of disease-related morbidity and mortality, so urologists are often called on to manage patients with VHL. Knowledge of the extrarenal manifestations of VHL (hemangioblastomas of the central nervous system and retina, endolymphatic sac tumors, pancreatic cysts, epididymal and broad-ligament cysts, and pheochromocytomas) and integration of nonurologic specialties into management teams for VHL patients will help to achieve successful outcomes. Screening for renal manifestations of VHL, by regular imaging of the abdomen, begins late in the second decade of life. Because renal tumors in VHL can be multifocal and bilateral, management can be complex. Radical nephrectomy removes all tissue at risk for forming renal tumors; however, this necessitates renal replacement therapy. In an effort to control cancer effectively while preserving native renal function and minimizing intervention, some researchers have proposed an observational strategy. Patients are screened until the largest tumor reaches 3 cm in diameter, at which time operative intervention is recommended. Nephron-sparing surgery is undertaken, whenever technically feasible, with the goal of removing all tumors in that renal unit. The role of minimally invasive technologies is currently being evaluated in selected patients with VHL renal masses. Elucidation of molecular pathways associated with VHL renal tumors may facilitate development of effective medical treatments for these lesions in the future.