Role of interferons in the therapy of metastatic renal cell carcinoma.

Abstract The prognosis of metastatic renal cell carcinoma continues to be dismal because of the lack of effective systemic therapies. To date, existing chemotherapy and hormonal therapy have produced disappointing results. However, alpha interferon and other biologic response modifiers have recently shown evidence of modest but consistent activity. This review summarizes results obtained with alpha interferon alone or in combination in the treatment of advanced renal carcinoma. It is hoped that future development of this field of cancer therapy may result in further improvements in the clinical management of these patients.