Side-effects of targeted therapies in the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma

Targeted therapies allow a significantly improved treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) in comparison to previous forms of treatment. The new drugs have the potential to stop disease progression over a long period of time. Targeting complex signal cascades in mRCC, however, may also lead to serious side-effects. The correct and timely detection of these adverse events is very important in a palliative therapy situation where the option of ambulatory treatment is desirable for the patient. To achieve a considerable progression-free survival and maintain quality of life the optimal management of these side-effects plays a key role not only for the oncologist but also for the general practitioner. This article is mainly based on the results of phase III studies of mRCC and extensive experience in the treatment of these patients in the clinical routine.