Dr. Jonasch on Pivotal Developments in the Treatment of RCC

Eric Jonasch, MD, professor, Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, discusses recent pivotal developments in treating patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

In the past few years, checkpoint antibody therapy has been incorporated into the frontline treatment setting for patients with RCC, and has further revolutionized the landscape, according to Jonasch. Median survivals ranging from 4 to 5 years have been observed with this approach Jonasch says. In some cases, the median overall survival is not met at all, which is a significant development for these patients, Jonasch adds.

Additionally, the development of hypoxia-inducible factor-2 alpha (HIF-2α) inhibitors has also been impactful for patients, Jonasch says. For example, the agent belzutifan (MK-6482) has been FDA approved to treat von Hippel-Lindau (VHL)–associated RCC, as well as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and hemangioblastomas, Jonasch explains.

Ultimately, checkpoint antibody therapy and HIF-2α inhibitors are helping to achieve better disease control and improve quality of life, bringing a larger percentage of patients closer to cure, Jonasch concludes.