Diagnosis of Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Clinician's Perspective

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a heterogeneous disease. A rigorous diagnostic assessment by a pathologist with close communication with the clinician provides more accurate prognostication and informed treatment decisions. In the localized setting, an accurate prognostic assessment directs patients to potential adjuvant clinical trials. For patients with advanced disease, the pathologic assessment may have a direct impact on the systemic therapy algorithm. Additionally, it provides the basis for continuous efforts in biomarker development. In rare histologic subtypes, the interaction between clinicians and pathologists provides an opportunity to offer patients specific clinical trials. Molecular characterization platforms may identify targets for therapeutic intervention.