Complete response to sunitinib in a patient with relapsed irresectable renal cell carcinoma.

We report a case with a complete pathology-proven remission after sunitinib treatment of a relapsed irresectable clear cell renal carcinoma. A significant objective response was observed with tumor size reduction during treatment. After surgery, on pathologic examination it was concluded that the patient exhibited a complete response; activity and the feasibility and safety of subsequent surgical resection were assessed. Otherwise after discontinuing sunitinib, the patient had a relapse on the same location; sunitinib has been resumed and was again found to be effective.