Renal cell carcinoma
ICD-10 C64 · ICD-11 2C90

First-Line Treatment for Advanced or Metastatic Clear-Cell RCC When Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors Are Contraindicated or Unavailable

Standard first-line management of advanced or metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma frequently incorporates immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-based regimens. However, a subset of patients cannot receive ICI therapy — either due to a medical contraindication or because ICI agents are not accessible. This protocol addresses the evidence-based approach for that population.

Clinical Scenario

Patients with advanced or metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma who have a contraindication to immune checkpoint inhibitors, or for whom ICI therapy is not available. In this setting, ICI-containing combinations are not an option and an alternative first-line strategy is required.

Treatment Approach (partial)

Specific systemic agents are recommended as first-line treatment in this setting; the selection among available options is guided by the patient's IMDC risk category.Complete regimen detail, agent selection criteria, and the full structured protocol are available below.

References
DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2024.05.537
  • In patients with a contraindication to ICIs, or where ICIs are not available, sunitinib, pazopanib or tivozanib may be used.
  • Sunitinib, pazopanib and tivozanib are alternatives to first-line PD-1-targeted combinations when ICI therapy is contraindicated or not available.
  • Cabozantinib is also an alternative in IMDC intermediate- and poor-risk disease for those patients who cannot receive first-line PD-1-targeted therapy.
View source ↗